The citizens of Alabama are extremely fortunate in being able to produce many types of fruits that provide good nutrition and gardening enjoyment. Studies in recent years have clearly shown that eating several servings of fruit each day promotes good health. The peach is the most popular tree fruit grown in the state.
Individuals living in rural areas often have fruit gardens.
But even people who live in larger cities and towns may have room for establishing small fruit plantings or a few fruit trees. Used in a home landscaping plan, fruit plantings provide shade and beauty as well as contribute needed vitamins and minerals to the family diet. All of the 14 or more different types of fruits grown commercially in the state are adapted for home production. Deciduous tree fruits, such as peaches and apples, and most small fruits, including blueberries and strawberries, can be grown throughout the state. Because of freeze damage, a number of popular fruits, such as satsuma, kumquat, and other types of citrus, are only adapted to South Alabama when grown outside.