How to Plant Bare Root Fruit Trees in Clay Soil

Planting some fruit trees in your yard is not only an attractive feature but an enjoyable and productive one as well. When planting a bare root fruit tree, the type of soil used is important since it plays a big role in the tree's growth and survival. Clay soil is a common challenge for tree planting since it is thick and tends to retain a lot of moisture, potentially drowning the roots. However, you can still plant bare root fruit trees in clay soil if you follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

When selecting the location to plant your bare root fruit tree, avoid placing it too close to structures, including the fence, the house, or other trees. Fruit trees need plenty of sunlight to thrive well and grow healthily. Ensure that the site gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It's also important to check that the site isn't near any potential hazards like gas lines or underground wires.

Step 2: Improve the Soil Quality

Clay soil is known for its dense and thick texture, which becomes inhospitable to the roots quickly. The best way to prepare the soil is to create a raised bed, which will improve air circulation and drainage. Break up the clay soil in the planting pit and add in some well-rotted organic matter to the soil, like compost, manure, or leaf mould, which will help retain moisture in the soil and add nutrients. Mix the soil and organic matter thoroughly.

Step 3: Dig the Planting Hole

The size of the planting hole should be enough to accommodate the root of the tree adequately. A hole 18-24 inches wide and 18-20 inches deep typically suffices. Remove the grass from the spot and dig a hole at least three times wider than the tree's spread soil line, which is the line around the base of the tree indicating the spread of the branches. The depth of the hole should be deep enough for you to plant your tree in the soil with the root collar slightly above the ground level.

Step 4: Set the Tree

Before setting the tree in the planting hole, soak the roots in water for about an hour. It helps reduce any air pockets underneath the plants and helps the roots settle into the hole. Put the tree in the hole with the roots well spread out, ensuring that the tree is being held straight. Backfill the hole with soil in layers, tamping down the soil to remove any pockets of air regularly. When completed, create a slight depression around the tree's base to allow water to collect when watering, gradually tapering away from the tree.

Step 5: Water the Tree

A newly planted fruit tree will need plenty of water to establish itself in the soil, and it is best to give it a deep watering every week, especially during the growing season. Water the tree heavily just after planting it, and then water again after a week. Ensure that the soil around the tree is kept evenly moist, but avoid creating standing water around the tree.

Conclusion

Planting bare root fruit trees can be straightforward, even in clay soil. The crucial step is to prepare the soil by creating a raised bed, checking the soil pH, and adding organic matter. As long as you follow the steps listed above, you will be able to successfully plant fruit trees in clay soil and enjoy the fruits of your labor.