How to Plant Fruit Trees Bare Root

Planting bare root fruit trees is an affordable and effective way to add fruit trees to your garden. If you're new to gardening or have never planted a bare root fruit tree before, don't worry. This guide will take you through the steps to plant your fruit trees so you can enjoy delicious, fresh fruit for years to come.

Step 1: Choose Your Fruit Trees

The first step in planting bare root fruit trees is to choose the types of trees you want to plant. Consider what types of fruit you enjoy eating, the climate in your area, and the sun exposure in the area where you plan to plant the trees.

Common fruit tree varieties for home gardens include apple, pear, peach, plum, and cherry trees. Make sure you select a type of fruit tree that is suitable for your climate and can thrive in your garden's soil conditions.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

To give your fruit trees the best chance of success, it's important to prepare the soil before planting. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and mix in compost or other organic matter to improve soil quality. Make sure the soil is well-draining, as fruit trees don't like to sit in waterlogged soil.

Step 3: Soak the Roots

Bare root fruit trees need to be soaked in water for a few hours before planting to help rehydrate the roots. Fill a bucket with water and immerse the bare roots in the water for at least an hour.

Step 4: Dig the Planting Hole

Now it's time to dig the planting hole. The hole should be wide enough to accommodate the spread-out roots and deep enough so the tree will be planted at the same depth it was originally growing. Make sure the hole is slightly wider than the root system to allow room for root growth.

Step 5: Plant the Tree

Place the fruit tree in the planting hole, making sure it's at the same depth it was previously growing. Hold the tree upright while you backfill the hole with soil, making sure to gently pack the soil to eliminate any air pockets. Water the tree well after planting to help settle the soil.

Step 6: Stake the Tree

If necessary, stake the tree to help it stay upright while it establishes a strong root system. Use a sturdy stake and tie the tree loosely to avoid damaging the trunk.

Step 7: Water and Mulch

After planting, water the tree deeply and then mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Make sure the mulch is kept away from the trunk of the tree to prevent moisture buildup and rot.

Caring for your fruit trees involves regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning, but with proper planting techniques, you'll be on your way to a bountiful harvest in no time.