In 1958, The International Fruit Tree Association began its existence as the Dwarf Fruit Tree Association.

A small meeting of fruit growers in Hartford, Michigan met to discuss the increasing interest in planting dwarf trees in commercial orchards.

As the meeting ended, it was proposed that the meeting become a regular, annual affair with the goal of keeping tree fruit growers informed and up-to-date on the latest information and research.

From these humble beginnings, IFTA has grown into an international organization noted for its commitment to furthering the fruit tree industry. For more information about the early history of IFTA, download the book A Historical Perspective, 1958-1991, written by Robert F. Carlson. Robert was a former Executive Secretary of IDFTA (IFTA) and the namesake of the Carlson Lecturer at the IFTA Annual Conference.

IFTA has conducted numerous international meetings and events and its membership spans the globe and is comprised of leading orchards and tree fruit researchers.