Pomegranate Tree in Maryland?
March 6th, 2010
I live just south-west of Baltimore. Does anyone know if Pomegranate Trees will grow in my area? From what I can tell, it appears they will grow as far North was Washington DC but they typically won’t produce fruits this far north. The information I have found has been limited. Have had to cut down a number of large trees on my property (Tulip Poplars, Hemlock, Pine) due to storm damage and being located too close to structures. Looking to plant a couple new ones to fill in some large bare spots and meet the obligations of my HOA. I’m looking for something fairly unique/different for one area near my house and a Pomegranate Tree would fit the bill though I’m pretty sure I’m too far North.
Any other suggestions??
Thanks!
There are many varieties of pomegranates. Some are purely ornamental. Others are grown for fruit. Some varieties are more cold hardy than others. Pomegranate is a subtropical/tropical plant and adapts to hot, dry summers. While more cold hardy than citrus plants, most are not that cold hardy. Some can tolerate temps to 10 degrees and others succumb to cold at 18 degrees. Ornamental type pomegranates tend to be more cold hardy. Fruiting varieties tend to survive the more southerly mild winters. Those who grow pomegranates in the north tend to grow them in pots.Your local Cooperative Extension Agent can provide you with info on a cold hardy variety for your area. A local nursery may be helpful. I know that you are looking for a tree that is unique and different, but planting native species provides greater assurance of survival of the tree.
