5 Fruit Trees That Can Thrive in Sandy Soils

Black Mission Fig

Black Mission figs (Ficus carica) do well in dry, warm environments. They can tolerate quick-draining, sandy soil because their roots go deep, allowing them to hold more moisture for longer.

“These figs are a delicious, highly sought-after fruit,” says Mark Brewer, president and co-founder at The Living Urn. “Enjoy them raw, in desserts, or as jam.”

Young fig trees are sensitive to frost, but otherwise you’ll need to mulch regularly and water them deeply—but infrequently.

“Twice a year, fig trees produce soft, sweet fruit,” Brewer says, “Plus, they are easy to maintain and sport rich, green foliage.” 

• Growing zones: 7 through 11
• Size: 10 to 30 feet tall and wide
• Growing conditions: Requires eight to 10 hours of sunlight each day in fertile, well-drained soil; figs are drought-tolerant once established, but be sure water drains well the first two years.

Elberta Peach

This peach tree (Prunus persica ‘Elberta’) is considered one of the most productive varieties, and thrives in sandy soil that warms quickly in the spring.

“To ensure its success, enriching sandy soil with organic matter yearly will help maintain fertility,” says Tammy Sons, founder and CEO at TN Nursery. “And, of course, regular watering during dry spells—particularly when fruits are developing—is important.”

• Growing zones: 5 through 9
• Size: Up to 25 feet tall; 10 to 20 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight each day and well-drained, sandy soil; does not tolerate drought, so water deeply and regularly.

Fuyu Persimmon

Persimmon trees (Diospyros kaki) like well-drained soil and are mildly drought-tolerant, making them a great choice for sandy soil. 

“Similar to apricots in flavor and texture, sweet Fuyu persimmons are delicious eaten raw or treated like an apple or stone fruit for baking and preserving,” says Brewer. “Persimmon trees also grace your garden or yard with beautiful foliage.” 

Be sure to supplement yours with annual composting, which replenishes the soil. “But steer clear of excessive nitrogen fertilization if you want a large harvest,” he says.

• Growing zones: 7 to 11
• Size: 12 to 15 feet tall; 10 to 12 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Prefers full to partial sun in well-drained soil; water deeply once per week until established, then monitor during drought.

Mulberry

Adaptable by nature, mulberries (Morus) grow a deep, strong root system that allows them to weather the side effects of sandy soil, like rapid draining and reduced nutrition. 

“Mulberries are delicious and quite nutritious,” says Brewer. “Use them just like blackberries for snacking, baking, jams, and jelly.” 

A well-established mulberry tree will attract pollinators with shade and blossoms. “Do mulch your mulberry thoroughly to help it retain moisture,” says Brewer, “and plan on regular winter pruning.”

• Growing zones: 4 through 10
• Size: 10 to 25 feet tall and wide
• Growing conditions: Prefers full sun for at least six hours per day; loamy or sandy soil with good drainage; needs deep watering about once per week.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate trees (Punica granatum) are native to the Middle East and its drier, sandier environment—and are also naturally less inclined to root rot.

“They’re delicious, versatile, nutritious, and perfect for snacking, topping salads, and juicing,” says Brewer. “Plant pomegranate trees in full sun and cultivate good air flow through branches by pruning.” 

• Growing zones: 7 through 10
• Size: 8 to 12 feet tall; 6 to 8 feet wide
• Growing conditions: Prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil; water well to establish, then it’s drought-tolerant.