How to Store Fruit Trees Before Planting

Planting fruit trees is a great way to add beauty and value to your property while enjoying delicious homegrown produce. However, if you're not ready to plant your fruit trees immediately, it's important to know how to store them properly to ensure their survival. Here's what you need to know about storing fruit trees before planting.

Choose the Right Trees

The first step to storing fruit trees is to choose the right ones for your climate, soil, and purpose. Make sure to ask your local nursery or arborist for advice on the best varieties of fruit trees for your area. Once you've chosen your trees, make sure to inspect them for any damage or diseases before bringing them home.

Control the Temperature

After you've purchased your trees, it's important to store them in a cool, dark place to prevent them from drying out or getting too much sun. A garage, basement, or root cellar is a good place to store your trees. Ideally, the temperature should be between 32 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and make adjustments as needed.

Keep the Roots Moist

The roots of your fruit trees are the most important part, so it's critical to keep them moist while they're in storage. To do this, wrap the trees in damp newspaper or burlap and store them in a plastic bag to help retain moisture. You can also soak the roots in a bucket of water for an hour or two before storing them. Just make sure to check the moisture level periodically and add water if necessary.

Avoid Freezing Temperatures

Fruit trees are sensitive to freezing temperatures, so it's important to avoid exposing them to extreme cold. If you live in an area with harsh winters, make sure to move your trees to a protected area, such as a heated garage or shed. You can also cover them with blankets or tarps to provide additional insulation. If your trees do become damaged by frost, you can try to revive them by pruning back any dead or damaged branches and applying a layer of mulch to protect the roots.

Plant as Soon as Possible

While it's important to store your fruit trees properly before planting, it's best to plant them as soon as possible to ensure their survival. Ideally, you should plant your trees within a few days of bringing them home. If you need to store them for a longer period, make sure to check on them regularly and provide them with water and fresh air. When you're ready to plant, make sure to choose a sunny, well-drained location with plenty of room for your trees to grow.

Conclusion

Storing fruit trees before planting can be a challenge, but by following these tips, you can help ensure their survival and success. Remember to choose the right trees, control the temperature, keep the roots moist, avoid freezing temperatures, and plant as soon as possible. With proper care and attention, your fruit trees will thrive and provide you with delicious homegrown produce for years to come.