Living in LA means having an average of 262 days of sun a year, which the city’s plants love just as much as its people. If you want to take advantage of your climate and enjoy some sweet, juicy goodness during the hottest months, then consider growing some fruits. Read on to discover five summer fruits you can grow in your LA backyard!
1. Strawberries
Strawberries are a backyard favorite for a reason. They don’t take up much space and thrive in small containers or garden beds. With LA’s warm summer days, strawberries can flourish with a little morning sunlight and some regular watering. Just remember that lots of creatures love strawberries, so you’ll want to protect them from pests with a fine net or by planting onions nearby as a natural deterrent.
2. Blueberries
Why buy blueberries when you can grow them yourself? With proper care, a blueberry bush can gift you with bowlfuls of delicious berries every summer. This fruit can be a bit finicky, so you’ll want to be mindful of blueberry bush growing mistakes, such as planting in basic, poorly drained soil.
3. Tomatoes
Homegrown tomatoes can be delightfully sweet, and we shouldn’t need to remind anyone that this culinary vegetable is scientifically a fruit! Plus, you’ll definitely appreciate juicy, fresh tomatoes on your summer salads and sandwiches. Cherry tomatoes, in particular, are a super easy variety to grow. Make sure they get plenty of sunlight and have stakes or trellises for support.
4. Lemons
When you think of LA, sun-soaked lemon trees might come to mind. A lemon tree can thrive in a backyard or even a large pot, making it good even for smaller spaces. Plus, nothing beats homemade lemonade on a hot summer day. Just water consistently and keep an eye out for signs of overwatering or root rot.
5. Watermelon
Yes, you can grow watermelon even in a smaller backyard if you plant a smaller variety (like Sugar Baby). Water your watermelons consistently and give them plenty of sunlight to enjoy sweet, juicy slices during the warmer months.
Growing your own summer fruits is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh produce, connect with nature, and make your backyard more productive. Whether you go with berries, citrus, melons, or all of the above, you’ve got plenty of options to turn your space into a personal slice of paradise.
