October is an exciting month for Washington gardeners who want to plan ahead. Planting fruit seeds now sets the stage for a rewarding harvest in future seasons.
The right choices make all the difference in success. These 14 fruits are perfect for planting in Washington this fall.
1. Apple
Starting fruit trees from scratch takes patience, but the payoff is huge. Apple seeds need cold stratification, which Washington’s October climate provides naturally. Simply plant them about an inch deep in well-draining soil and let winter work its magic.
You won’t get fruit for several years, but watching your tree grow is incredibly rewarding. Washington’s temperate zones are perfect for most apple varieties.
2. Pear
Cold weather actually helps these seeds germinate better next spring. Pear seeds respond well to the natural freeze-thaw cycles that Washington experiences during fall and winter. Plant them in October and they’ll be ready to sprout when temperatures warm.
The Pacific Northwest climate suits pear trees beautifully. They’re hardy and adapt well to the region’s rainfall patterns.
3. Plum
Don’t toss those pits after enjoying summer plums! Plum seeds need several months of cold exposure to break dormancy, making October perfect for planting. Washington gardeners can take advantage of natural stratification without any extra work.
These stone fruits thrive in the state’s varied microclimates. Just bury the pits about two inches deep and wait patiently.
4. Cherry
Sweet or tart, cherries grown from seed create beautiful trees over time. Cherry pits require cold stratification just like other stone fruits, and Washington’s autumn provides ideal conditions. Plant them now and they’ll germinate naturally when spring arrives.
The state is famous for cherry production, so you’re in good company. Your backyard could host the next great cherry tree.
5. Peach
Juicy peaches might seem like a warm-climate fruit, but their seeds love cold treatment. Peach pits planted in October will experience Washington’s winter chill, which breaks down the hard shell naturally. This process ensures better germination rates come springtime.
Eastern Washington’s warmer zones work especially well for peach trees. Plant the pits about three inches deep for best results.
6. Apricot
These golden fruits produce seeds that need patience and cold exposure. Apricot pits benefit tremendously from natural stratification during Washington’s wet, cool fall and winter months. October planting means they’ll be primed for growth when warmer weather returns.
The trees are surprisingly hardy once established. Washington’s climate diversity means you can find a suitable spot almost anywhere in the state.
7. Strawberry
Tiny seeds pack a powerful punch when it comes to strawberry cultivation. While most people use runners, starting from seed in October gives plants time to establish roots before winter dormancy. Washington’s mild coastal areas are especially suitable for fall strawberry planting.
You’ll see growth by spring and berries the following summer. Just scatter the seeds lightly and barely cover them with soil.
8. Raspberry
Wild raspberries grow throughout Washington, proving how well-suited they are here. Raspberry seeds planted in October will stratify naturally over winter, leading to strong germination. The cool, moist conditions mimic their native forest floor environment perfectly.
These berries spread easily once established, so plan your space accordingly. Washington’s rainfall keeps them happy without much extra watering.
9. Blackberry
Brambles might have a wild reputation, but they’re fantastic fruit producers. Blackberry seeds need cold stratification, which Washington’s October weather delivers naturally. Plant them now and you’ll have vigorous canes sprouting by late spring.
The state’s wild blackberries prove these plants thrive here. Just be prepared for their enthusiastic growth habits once they take off.
10. Blueberry
Acid-loving plants like these flourish in Washington’s naturally acidic soils. Blueberry seeds are tiny but mighty, requiring cold stratification for successful germination. October planting allows them to undergo natural winter chilling, which dramatically improves sprouting rates.
The Pacific Northwest is blueberry heaven, with commercial farms dotting the landscape. Your backyard can join the tradition with patience and proper soil.
11. Currant
European settlers brought these berries to the region centuries ago. Currant seeds benefit from cold stratification, making October an excellent planting time in Washington. The seeds are small, so mix them with sand for easier, more even distribution.
Black, red, or white varieties all grow well here. Washington’s cool springs give currant bushes the conditions they prefer for fruit production.
12. Gooseberry
Tart and tangy, gooseberries are an underrated backyard fruit. Gooseberry seeds planted in October will stratify naturally through Washington’s winter, breaking dormancy perfectly for spring germination. These hardy shrubs tolerate the state’s varied weather patterns exceptionally well.
They’re related to currants and share similar growing requirements. Washington gardeners will find them low-maintenance and surprisingly productive once mature.
13. Elderberry
Native to the Pacific Northwest, elderberries feel right at home here. Elderberry seeds need cold stratification to germinate successfully, and Washington’s October planting provides exactly that. These shrubs grow vigorously and produce clusters of dark, nutritious berries.
Wild elderberries line many Washington roadsides, showing their adaptability. Your cultivated plants will benefit from the same climate advantages.
14. Grape
Washington’s wine country isn’t just for commercial growers anymore. Grape seeds planted in October undergo cold stratification naturally, preparing them for spring germination. While growing grapes from seed won’t give you true-to-type fruit, it’s an exciting gardening experiment.
The state’s eastern regions especially favor grape cultivation. Plant several seeds since germination rates vary, and enjoy watching your vines develop over time.