Fruit Trees in a Drought

Fruit trees need water to set and nourish fruit. When water is at a premium, there are some actions that can be taken to help your trees survive drought.

With reduced moisture, trees grow slower and fruit is smaller. Under the most severe conditions, leaves wilt, burn, and trees may die.

In periods of long-term drought, trees suffer less when they are irrigated early in the season as they grow new shoots, flower, and set fruit. As dry conditions continue, it helps to remove most or all fruit and thin all remaining fruit. Summer pruning by thinning and topping branches after leaves develop also helps to reduce water use.

Preventive Care

Water deeply once a week or less, depending on soil density, when soil begins to dry out. Most roots are located in the top 1-2 ft. of soil. Maintaining moisture there results in a trees best performance. Probe the soil to maintain moisture in this active root zone. Few roots extend any deeper.
Mulch your trees to conserve moisture but keep mulch at least 6 in. away from the trunk. Water thoroughly before you mulch.
Thin fruit on your tree. Thinning fruit saves 20-30% water and will help the remaining fruit develop. Moisture stress late in the season can limit fruit size but tends to enhance fruit flavor as the sugars in the fruit are concentrated.
In a major heat wave, attempt to shade your trees using patio umbrellas and/or shade cloth during the hottest part of the day.

Drought Tolerance of Common Fruit Trees

Almonds, figs and olives are the most drought tolerant.
Apples, cherries, apricots, pears and plums are somewhat drought tolerant.
Nectarines, peaches and citrus need adequate water to survive.

Additional Resources:

A short video on Thinning Apple Trees
Dealing with Drought for Vegetables, Fruit Trees, and Berries (UCCE Sonoma County)

August 2022