• Pear trees thrive in cold climates.Shioguchi/Digital Vision/Getty Images
  
  USDA hardiness zone 4 is among the coldest, reaching winter temperatures averaging between -20 and -30 degrees Fahrenheit. Examples of cities with this hardiness zone include St. Paul, Minnesota and Northwood, Iowa. While the winters may seem harsh, they are the perfect temperature for cold climate fruit trees.
  
  

Apple

• There are many varieties of apple trees that thrive in zone 4 areas. In fact, without that cold, long winter, the trees would not produce their high yield of fruit. Apple trees require moist, well-drained soil and should never be planted at the bottom of a hill, as the cold air tends to collect and cause the tree's flowers to freeze. Plant apple trees in full sun for the best growth and harvest. Examples of apple varieties for zone 4 include gale gala, ginger gold, gilpin and golden russet.
  
  

Pears

• Similar to apples, pear trees require a cold, harsh winter for a full summer harvest. Pear trees prefer slightly acidic soil, 6.0 to 6.5, but can be planted in soil as low as 5.0. Pear trees do not require fertilizer during their first year, but do require moist, well-drained soil. Because zone 4 is so favorable to pear trees, the limbs will require thinning as the fruit forms. Examples of pear trees for zone 4 include Flemish beauty, gourmet, nova and summer crisp.
  
  

Apricots

• Apricots are a tender fruiting tree that most would never guess could live in zone 4. There are actually many varieties of apricot that do just that and that have even been tested in Minnesota's zone 4. Apricots should be obtained in bare-root form and transplanted into a garden. Give the trees full sun and well-drained soil. If you are planning on planting more than one, space the trees at least 25 feet apart and the dwarfs 8 feet apart. Examples of apricot varieties for zone 4 include Manchurian, mandan, scout and sungold.