October in Oregon brings cooler temperatures and plenty of rain, making it an ideal time to start certain fruit seeds. Planting now gives seeds a chance to establish roots before winter sets in.
Many fruits actually benefit from the cold stratification that happens naturally in Oregon’s fall and winter months. Get your hands dirty this October and you’ll be rewarded with fresh fruit in the seasons ahead.
1. Apple Seeds
Growing apples from seed is a fun experiment that works surprisingly well in Oregon’s climate. The state’s wet winters provide the cold period apple seeds need to germinate properly. Plant them about half an inch deep in well-draining soil and cover with mulch.
Keep in mind that seedling apples won’t match the parent tree exactly, but they often produce interesting new varieties.
Oregon gardeners have been growing apples for generations, and starting from seed connects you to that tradition. Your seedlings will sprout in spring after the cold months do their magic.
2. Pear Seeds
Pears thrive in Oregon’s Willamette Valley and beyond, making them perfect candidates for October seed planting. These seeds appreciate the natural chill they’ll get over winter, which breaks their dormancy. Simply press them into moist soil and let nature take its course.
Patience pays off with pears since they take several years to fruit. The cool, rainy Oregon fall gives seeds the moisture they crave without you having to water constantly.
By spring, you’ll likely see green shoots poking through. Pear trees eventually become beautiful additions to any yard.
3. Strawberry Seeds
Strawberries are surprisingly easy to grow from seed if you plant them at the right time. October works well in Oregon because the seeds can settle in before the hardest freezes arrive. Scatter the tiny seeds on top of soil rather than burying them, as they need light to sprout.
Oregon’s mild winters won’t kill these hardy plants, and they’ll reward you with berries by early summer. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged throughout fall and winter.
Starting strawberries from seed costs almost nothing and fills your garden with sweet fruit for years to come.
4. Raspberry Seeds
Did you know raspberries grow wild throughout much of Oregon? That tells you they’re perfectly suited to our climate when planted in October. Extract seeds from ripe berries, rinse them clean, and plant them in containers or directly in the ground.
These seeds need cold stratification, which Oregon’s fall and winter naturally provide without any extra work from you.
Raspberry plants spread quickly once established, creating thick patches of delicious fruit. Oregon gardeners often have more raspberries than they know what to do with after a few seasons of growth.
5. Blueberry Seeds
Blueberries love Oregon’s naturally acidic soil, especially in areas west of the Cascades. October planting gives these seeds the cold treatment they require to germinate successfully. Press them gently into acidic potting mix and keep them consistently damp through the rainy season.
Growing blueberries from seed takes patience since they’re slow to mature, but the payoff is worth it.
Oregon produces some of the country’s best blueberries commercially, and you can join that tradition in your own backyard. Your seedlings will eventually produce buckets of antioxidant-rich berries each summer.
6. Goji Berry
Ever wondered about the secret to longevity? The humble goji berry, often called a superfood, might hold the answer. With origins in Asia, this fruit is rich in antioxidants and can thrive in Oregon’s cool October climate.
Planting goji berry seeds in well-drained soil ensures successful germination. These hardy plants are adaptable, growing well even in challenging weather.
By nurturing them through the fall, you set the stage for a fruitful harvest. Fun fact: goji berries are also known for their ability to improve vision and boost the immune system.
7. Quince
Imagine the scent of freshly baked quince pie wafting through your home. Quince, a lesser-known cousin of apples and pears, thrives when planted in October.
These aromatic fruits prefer a sunny spot and slightly acidic soil. Start seeds indoors to protect them from frost, then transplant them outside as winter approaches.
Quince fruits are known for their fragrant aroma and high pectin content, making them perfect for jellies and jams. Did you know? Quince has been cultivated since ancient times and was once a symbol of love and fertility.
8. Kiwi
Kiwi fruits, with their vibrant green interiors and exotic taste, are a delightful addition to any garden. Originally from China, they thrive in Oregon’s temperate climate.
Start by planting seeds in a warm, sunny location with well-drained soil. These climbers benefit from a sturdy support structure, such as a trellis.
Patience is key, as kiwis can take a few years to bear fruit. A fun tidbit: kiwis are named after New Zealand’s national bird due to their similar appearance. Their rich vitamin C content makes them both delicious and nutritious.