How Deep to Plant Grafted Trees

Grafted trees are a great way to ensure that your trees have hardy, disease-resistant roots with a desirable fruit-bearing branch system. But if you're new to planting grafted trees, you may be wondering how deep to plant them in order to ensure success. Here are some tips to help you plant your grafted trees at the correct depth.

Understand the Grafting Point

The grafting point is the area on a grafted tree where the branches that bear fruit have been spliced onto the rootstock. This area should be visible just above the soil line when you plant your tree. If the grafting point is buried too deep in soil, it may not be able to get enough sunlight, which can weaken or kill the fruit-bearing branches.

Determine the Correct Depth

When it comes to planting grafted trees, the rule of thumb is to plant them at the same depth they were in their nursery containers. If you're planting a bare-root tree, you'll need to determine the correct depth by looking for the grafting point. Make sure the grafting point is just above the soil line when you're finished planting.

Preventing Deep Planting

Deep planting is a common mistake when planting grafted trees, but it's easily preventable by taking a few simple steps. First, make sure the hole you dig is only as deep as the root ball or nursery container the tree came in. Don't dig any deeper than this, as it will make it difficult to keep the tree in place and prevent it from settling too deeply.

Next, backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down gently as you go. Make sure you don't bury the grafting point, and keep the soil level even with the top of the root ball. Finally, water the tree thoroughly and add a layer of mulch to help conserve moisture and keep the area around the tree weed-free.

Conclusion

Planting a grafted tree is a great way to ensure a healthy, fruit-bearing tree that will survive for many years. By understanding the grafting point, determining the correct depth, and taking preventative measures to prevent deep planting, you can give your grafted tree the best possible start in life. With a little care and attention, your grafted tree will thrive and provide you with delicious fruit for many years to come.