Knowledgebase
Apple Trees #862525
Asked March 26, 2024, 10:22 AM EDT
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hi, Sarah. I have a bunch of resources for you to consider your choices.
As for trees, you're right that dwarf-stock is likely the best size for your yard. There does need to be a second apple tree to cross-pollinate, but a crabapple would do as well. Sargent Crab is a nice small variety with interesting horizontal branching.
https://extension.umn.edu/fruit/growing-apples
https://trees.umn.edu/crabapple-malus-spp
https://extension.umn.edu/how/planting-and-transplanting-trees-and-shrubs
Great idea for natives on that steep front yard. They'll hold the slope nicely with the longer roots. You will need to remove the grass first.
One thing to consider that is less maintenance would be Diervilla, which is a native bee-friendly small shrub. Gro-Low Sumac would be another nice option. Here are some other resources to get you started:
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/page/plants-by-name
Organic Site Preparation - Xerxes Society
Enjoy making your selections.