For the past three or four years, the interest in planting vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and nut trees has increased. I think tough economic conditions along with increasing food prices have forced many families to begin looking for ways to save money. You will be utterly amazed on how much squash one can harvest off of one transplant or how many pears are actually produced from one tree. Having mentioned the pears, many people have called recently inquiring about the proper planting procedures for fruit and nut trees.

Fruit and nut trees can be purchased from local retailers or directly from nurseries. Regardless of where they are purchased, it is imperative to get your product planted soon. The longer your tree goes without being planted; the chances of that tree living and emerging out of dormancy are small. This is due to the roots drying out. As you get ready to plant your tree, it is important to plant well away from structures, buildings and overhead power lines because of the ultimate size the trees will reach. Keep in mind the power companies have the right to trim your tree or remove it in the entirety if necessary.

Bare-root trees should be transplanted while dormant, between December and March. The earlier you plant the tree the better. This gives the tree’s roots sufficient time to become established before bud break. Bare-root trees have long taproots and require a deep planting hole. In most situations, the hole should be at least three feet deep and 12-24 inches wide so that all side roots can be properly positioned as the hole is refilled. These numbers reflect a tree that has a large tap-root and many other secondary roots. If you have a tree that has a much smaller root system, then you would not need such a big or wide hole.

When centered in the hole, trees should be set at the same depth they stood in the nursery, usually indicated by a color change on the bark. It is critical that the tree not be planted too deeply because the roots may die from a lack of oxygen, leading to tree stress or death. Make every effort to keep the taproot as intact as possible. Some minor trimming of the roots is permissible, so long as it is kept to a minimum.

Once the tree is positioned correctly in the hole, begin backfilling with soil. The addition of 1-3 gallons of water should be added as you are backfilling. This helps keeps the roots moist and helps to alleviate air pockets in the hole. The addition of peat moss to the soil is a bonus, as this will aid in soil moisture retention.

After planting, prune approximately six inches of the top of the tree. This helps the tree distribute carbohydrates evenly throughout the tree.

The addition of mulch around the tree will help with weed control and moisture conservation.

Planting trees can be very fun and fulfilling!