The Best Way to plant fruit trees
Planting fruit trees is easier than you think! Here's how to do it in simple steps:
- Pick the right time: Plant in spring or fall when it's not too hot or cold.
- Choose your spot: Find a sunny place where your tree will get at least 6 hours of sunlight. Make sure it's away from buildings and power lines.
- Dig the perfect hole: Make it twice as wide as the root ball but just as deep. Think of it like digging a swimming pool for your tree's roots!
- Plant it right: Put your tree in the hole at the same depth it was in its pot. The trunk should be straight up and down.
- Fill it in: Use the soil you dug out to fill around the roots. Pat it down gently but don't pack it too hard.
- Water well: Give it lots of water right after planting - enough to soak the soil completely.
Pro Tips:
- Add mulch around the tree (but not touching the trunk)
- Water regularly for the first year
- Don't add fertilizer until the tree has been growing for a few months
Sources:
University of Minnesota Extension
Arbor Day Foundation