Did you know that some fruits actually get better *after* you pick them? These are called climacteric fruits, and they continue to ripen right on your kitchen counter. Here’s a look at some of the best varieties for your garden and how to pick the perfect one for your space.
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++Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa)
Kiwis are stunning climbers that can turn a plain exterior wall into a lush green feature. To get a harvest, you’ll usually need to plant both a male and a female vine. Make sure they get plenty of sunshine, as light is key for fruit development. Even after harvesting, kiwis need a little “counter time” to soften up and reach that perfect, sweet consistency.
++Peach (Prunus persica)
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a sun-warmed peach. These stone fruits continue to ripen beautifully after they’re off the tree. They’re perfect for fruit salads, cobblers, or even as the fresh base for a classic Bellini cocktail. When planting, find a sunny spot that’s sheltered from harsh winds to keep your tree happy.
++Peppers (Capsicum)
Originally from Latin America, peppers have become a staple in gardens everywhere. They thrive in sheltered garden beds or even in a sunny sunroom. If you pick them a little early, don’t worry—they’ll continue to develop their flavor and even change color while sitting in your kitchen.
++Pear (Pyrus)
Pears are famous for needing a little post-harvest nap to reach their full, buttery potential. They are a great choice for smaller yards because many varieties don’t grow as tall as other fruit trees. Even a single tree can provide a generous harvest, provided it gets enough sunlight to sweeten the fruit.
++Fig (Ficus carica)
Figs are trending in the gardening world right now, and for good reason! Their large, lobed leaves look exotic and beautiful. They handle pruning well, so you can easily keep them at a manageable size. While they are often picked when they’re just starting to soften, they’ll continue to mellow out after harvest. Just remember to give your tree some winter protection when the temperatures drop.
++Apple (Malus)
The quintessential backyard fruit! Apples are fantastic because they store so well. During storage, they continue to ripen and develop a more complex, rounded flavor. Don’t just stick to the supermarket varieties; look into “heirloom” types for unique flavors you can’t find in stores.
++Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Whether it’s for pasta sauce or a fresh Caprese salad, homegrown tomatoes are unbeatable. At the end of the season, you can even harvest the green ones—store them with a few ripe ones, and they’ll turn red in no time. Pro tip: Never put your tomatoes in the fridge! The cold kills the flavor. If you’re short on space, cherry tomatoes grow perfectly on a balcony.
%%Japanese Fiber Banana (Musa Basjoo)
Here’s a bit of an insider secret: you can grow bananas even if you don’t live in the tropics! The Japanese Fiber Banana is a cold-hardy variety that brings a tropical vibe to temperate gardens. You can harvest the fruit and let it ripen indoors to enjoy a truly exotic homegrown treat.