Introduction

If you are looking to add some fruit trees to your home orchard, bare root trees are an excellent option. Bare root trees are young trees that have been grown in a nursery, lifted from the ground and had their soil removed. These trees are then sold without any soil around the roots. Bare root trees are easier to transport, take up less space, and are generally cheaper than potted trees. However, planting a bare root tree requires a little bit more care than planting a potted tree. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to plant bare root fruit trees.

When to Plant Bare Root Fruit Trees

Bare-root fruit trees are typically available from nurseries between December and March. This is the dormant season for the trees, which means they're not actively growing. Bare-root fruit trees should be planted while they're still dormant. This gives the trees the best chance to establish their roots before they need to start putting energy into growing leaves and fruit.

Preparing the Soil

Good soil preparation is essential for the successful planting of fruit trees. The type of soil you have will determine how much preparation is needed. For most soils, it's best to dig a hole that's about twice as wide as the root system of the tree. The hole should be deep enough to allow the graft union to be about two inches above the soil line. Mix in well-rotted compost or aged manure with the soil you removed when digging the hole. This will improve soil structure and add nutrients, which will help your new tree to thrive.

Planting the Tree

Before planting, soak the roots of the bare root fruit tree in a bucket of water for at least an hour. This will help to rehydrate the roots and prepare them for planting. Once the roots have soaked, spread them out in the hole you dug. Make sure the graft union is above the soil line. Fill the hole with your prepared soil mixture, pressing the soil around the roots as you go. Once the hole is filled, give the tree a good watering to help settle the soil and hydrate the roots.

Caring for Your New Tree

After planting your bare root fruit tree, it's important to keep the soil consistently moist. Water your new tree deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry. Mulching around the base of the tree with a layer of organic matter will help to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid using fertilizers in the first year, as the tree needs to establish its roots before putting energy into growing leaves and fruit.

Conclusion

Planting bare root fruit trees is a great way to expand your home orchard. While the process requires a little extra care and attention, the result is well worth it. By preparing your soil, planting your tree correctly, and providing it with enough water and care, you'll be able to enjoy fresh fruit from your new tree for years to come.