How to Plant Grafted Fruit Trees

Growing fruit trees is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. If you are looking to plant fruit trees in your garden or orchard, consider planting grafted fruit trees. Grafted trees have many advantages over seed-grown fruit trees. They have a stronger root system, are disease-resistant, and will produce fruit sooner. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to successfully plant grafted fruit trees.

Choose the Right Spot

The first step in planting grafted fruit trees is to choose the right spot. The spot you choose should be well-draining and receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should also be fertile and rich in organic matter. Avoid spots where water tends to collect or where there is a lot of foot traffic.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting your grafted fruit tree, prepare the soil properly. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the tree's root ball. Remove any rocks or debris from the soil, and mix in some compost or aged manure. This will provide your tree with the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.

Plant the Tree

Now it's time to plant your grafted fruit tree. Place the tree in the hole, making sure the graft union is above the soil line. The graft union is where the scion (the top part of the tree) is attached to the rootstock (the bottom part of the tree). If the graft union is buried in the soil, the tree may die. Fill in the hole with soil and tamp it down firmly. Water the tree thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.

Care for Your Tree

To ensure your grafted fruit tree grows strong and healthy, you need to care for it properly. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the tree in the winter to remove any dead or diseased wood, and to shape the tree. This will promote healthy growth and improve fruit production.

Conclusion

Growing grafted fruit trees can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully plant and care for your grafted fruit tree. With the right care and attention, your tree will provide you with delicious fruit for many years to come.