September is the perfect time to start planting fruits from seed in Virginia. I love seeing tiny seeds grow into healthy, thriving plants over the weeks.
It’s so rewarding to imagine the fresh, juicy harvests waiting ahead. Here are 13 fruits that are perfect to plant this month and bring your garden to life!
1. Apples
Fall is prime time to plant apple seeds in Virginia’s cooling soil. Starting from seed creates unique varieties that might surprise you with their flavors.
Collect seeds from local Virginia orchards for better climate adaptation. Just remember apple trees need cross-pollination, so plant multiple varieties for successful fruiting.
2. Strawberries
Wild strawberry seeds scattered now will establish strong root systems before Virginia’s winter arrives. They develop better cold tolerance when planted in September rather than spring.
Many Virginia gardeners miss this opportunity, waiting until spring instead. For best results, chill seeds in your refrigerator for two weeks before planting to simulate natural winter conditions.
3. Blackberries
Native blackberry seeds thrive when planted in September throughout Virginia’s diverse growing regions. The cooling soil encourages strong root development before dormancy sets in.
Virginia’s climate provides perfect conditions for these resilient berries. Collect seeds from wild berries growing in your area for varieties already adapted to local conditions.
4. Raspberries
Raspberry seeds benefit from Virginia’s natural cold stratification when planted in September. The winter freeze-thaw cycles help break seed dormancy naturally.
Throughout Virginia’s Piedmont region, gardeners find fall-planted raspberries develop stronger root systems. Extract seeds from fresh berries, rinse thoroughly, and plant immediately for best germination rates.
5. Pawpaws
Virginia’s native pawpaw trees grow beautifully from fresh seeds planted in September. Their tropical-tasting fruits are increasingly popular at farmers markets across the state.
Fresh pawpaw seeds lose viability quickly, so plant immediately after collecting. Many Virginia homesteaders are rediscovering this indigenous fruit that was once a staple for Native Americans.
6. Persimmons
American persimmon seeds need Virginia’s winter chill to break dormancy naturally. September planting allows the perfect timing for this process to occur.
These native trees produce sweet fruits after the first frost hits Virginia gardens. Plant seeds one inch deep in well-draining soil, and protect the area from squirrels who love to dig up these nutritious treats.
7. Mulberries
Mulberry seeds planted in September establish themselves nicely before Virginia’s winter arrives. These fast-growing trees provide abundant harvests for both humans and wildlife.
Throughout Virginia’s diverse growing regions, mulberries adapt to various soil conditions. Collect seeds from local trees for varieties proven to thrive in your specific part of the state.
8. Elderberries
Elderberry seeds benefit from natural cold stratification when planted in Virginia’s September gardens. These immune-boosting berries are becoming increasingly popular for home remedies.
Virginia’s climate provides perfect conditions for elderberry germination and growth. Collect seeds from wild plants growing in your region for varieties already adapted to local conditions.
9. Blueberries
Wild blueberry seeds need Virginia’s natural winter cycle to break dormancy effectively. September planting mimics their natural propagation timeline in woodland areas.
Virginia’s acidic soil regions are perfect for blueberry cultivation. Extract seeds from fresh berries, rinse thoroughly, and plant in peat-rich soil for best germination results next spring.
10. Muscadines
Muscadine grape seeds establish strong root systems when planted in Virginia’s September garden beds. These native grapes produce delicious fruits perfect for jams and wines.
Throughout Virginia’s southern regions, muscadines thrive in the long growing season. Extract seeds from locally grown fruits for varieties already proven to succeed in your specific climate zone.
11. Serviceberries
Serviceberry seeds benefit from Virginia’s natural winter stratification when planted in September. These native trees produce delicious berries that taste like blueberries with almond notes.
Virginia’s woodland edges provide perfect growing conditions for these understory trees. Collect seeds from wild serviceberries for varieties already adapted to your specific region of the state.
12. Cherries
Wild cherry seeds need Virginia’s winter chill to break dormancy naturally. September planting allows this process to happen without artificial stratification.
Throughout Virginia’s mountain regions, wild cherries thrive in the cooler climate. Extract seeds from local cherries, clean thoroughly, and plant immediately for best germination rates next spring.
13. Figs
Fig seeds planted in September develop strong roots before Virginia’s winter dormancy period. While slow-growing from seed, they create unique varieties worth the wait.
Virginia’s coastal areas provide excellent conditions for fig cultivation. Extract seeds from fully ripe figs, rinse gently, and plant in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.