Can You Plant Volunteer Fruit Trees?

If you are not familiar with the term "volunteer fruit trees," they are the fruit trees that appear on their own in your garden, orchard or landscape, without anybody planting them intentionally. These trees can grow from seeds dropped by birds or other animals, or from the remains of the fruit that was not harvested the previous season. While some gardeners may see them as a nuisance, others may see them as an opportunity to grow fruit without spending any money. So, can you plant volunteer fruit trees?

The Pros of Planting Volunteer Fruit Trees

One of the advantages of planting volunteer fruit trees is that they are free. You do not have to spend any money on purchasing saplings or seeds, nor do you have to spend any time and effort in planting them. Another advantage is that these trees are already adjusted to the climate and soil of your area. Since they have grown on their own, they are likely to be hardy and resistant to pests and diseases.

The Cons of Planting Volunteer Fruit Trees

However, there are also some disadvantages of planting volunteer fruit trees. First, you have no control over the quality of the fruit or the tree. Volunteer trees are more likely to grow wild and produce smaller, less tasty fruit than the trees that are intentionally planted and cared for. Second, you do not know the variety of the fruit until it ripens, which may be too late for you to decide whether you want to keep the tree or cut it down. Third, volunteer trees may not be compatible with other trees in your orchard, which can lead to cross-pollination issues or competition for nutrients and space.

How to Plant Volunteer Fruit Trees?

If you have decided to plant a volunteer fruit tree, there are some steps you can take to increase the chances of success. First, prune the tree in its dormant season to remove dead branches or any growth that is competing with the main trunk. Second, fertilize the tree with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil quality and provide nutrients. Third, water the tree regularly, especially during drought seasons. Fourth, protect the tree from pests and diseases by monitoring it regularly and using natural remedies such as neem oil or soap spray.

Conclusion

While the idea of planting volunteer fruit trees is appealing to many gardeners, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision. If you have limited space or want to ensure that you have high-quality fruit, it may be better to purchase a sapling or a tree from a reputable nursery. However, if you have enough space and are willing to take a chance, planting a volunteer fruit tree can be a rewarding experience that may lead to unexpected surprises.