The University of Minnesota has been breeding fruit trees for over 100 years and has provided resources for citizens to aid them in growing fruit trees for nearly as long. Here are some of those resources that can help you.
Growing Guides
- Growing Apples in the Home Garden
- Growing Pears in the Home Garden
- Growing Stone Fruits in the Home Garden
- Growing Grapes in the Home Garden
- Growing Currants and Gooseberries in the Home Garden
- Pruning and Training Apple Trees
- More U of M guides on growing fruit
Soil Testing
The university soil testing service is an affordable soil testing option. It doesn’t provide as much information as some other soil testing services, but it can be a good starting point for those who want some basic information, but don’t want to dive too deep into soil testing and amendments. University of Minnesota Soil Testing Lab
Extension services
Each county in Minnesota has one or more university extension offices (Saint Louis County has two, one in Duluth and another in Virginia). These offices have experts you can call and ask questions. In addition they organize events and courses related to agriculture and have a Master Gardener volunteer program. Find your local extension here.