How to Plant a Bare Root Crabapple Tree

Planting a bare root crabapple tree requires a bit of preparation, but it can be a rewarding experience. Here, we'll guide you through the process step by step.

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Before you start planting, it's important to choose a good spot for your tree. Crabapple trees need full sun and well-draining soil. The site should also have enough space for the tree to grow to its maximum height and spread.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

The soil where you are planting the tree should be free of weeds, rocks, and debris. You can prepare the soil by tilling and adding organic matter like compost, manure or peat moss. This will help improve soil structure, drainage, and fertility.

Step 3: Soak the Tree

Before planting the tree, soak the bare roots in water for at least 2 hours. This will help rehydrate the roots and prevent transplant shock. Trim away any damaged or broken roots, and cut any overly long roots to around 6 inches.

Step 4: Dig the Hole

Dig a hole for the tree that is wider and deeper than the root system of the tree. Make sure to position the tree so that the graft union - the knobby area where the tree was grafted onto a rootstock - is at least 2 inches above the soil line.

Step 5: Add Soil and Water

Fill the hole with soil, firming it around the tree roots with your hands. Water the tree well, making sure to saturate the soil around the roots. Once the water has soaked in, add more soil to fill any air pockets that may have formed.

Step 6: Mulch the Area

Add a layer of mulch to the base of the tree, making sure to keep the mulch away from the tree trunk. Mulch helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. It can also improve soil structure as it decomposes.

Step 7: Water and Care for the Tree

Water the tree regularly for the first year after planting, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Avoid fertilizing the tree until it has established a good root system, which typically takes about a year. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged or diseased wood.

Following these steps will help ensure that your bare root crabapple tree grows healthy and strong, providing beauty and fruit for years to come.