New Orleans has a long history of cultivating fruit trees for commercial and residential usage. The introduction of citruses, in particular, revolutionized the local economy. Satsuma, orange, fig, mulberry, and papaya trees, to name a few, are interspersed in New Orleans' urban areas, supporting a host of organisms and providing residents with local fresh fruit.
On Xavier's campus, we want to continue the tradition of growing fresh, healthy produce, for our community to enjoy. Currently, we have several Loquat (Japanese Plum) trees, fruit from October to March, a Bartlett Pear tree, fruits mid to late summer, Citrus trees fruit from November to February, Berry bushes fruit from July to August, and Cumquats fruit November to January.
Over the next few years, the Office of Sustainability plans to continue planting fruit trees and expand the XULA Orchard. Our most recent initiative includes using the campus greenhouse to propagate and grow fruit and other trees from seeds and small cuttings. Interested students are encouraged to contact the Office of Sustainability to find out how to get involved.
