The Best Order to Plant Your Fruit Trees

Fruit trees are a fantastic investment in the future of your garden. They not only add natural beauty but also provide ample amounts of nutritious fruits to harvest when the time is right. However, planting fruit trees is not as simple as going out to your garden and sticking some saplings in the ground. There is a science to planting fruit trees, and understanding the right order to do it in will make all the difference. In this article, we'll discuss why the order matters and what it should be.

Why Order Matters

Planting order is crucial to ensure the best growth, health, and productivity of your fruit trees. It's important to note that some fruit trees are pollinated by others, which makes their placement in the right order essential. A well-thought-out planting order can also help you get the most out of your space, allowing you to plant more variety or number of trees. Finally, planting in the right order can help you protect your trees from damaging winds or weather events, which can stunt their growth or cause other health problems.

First Things First: Site Analysis and Soil Preparation

The very first step, before you even consider planting your fruit trees, is to analyze your site and prepare your soil. Consider the following factors:

Sun exposure: Fruit trees typically require at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Analyze your site to ensure that there are no shade obstructions or north-facing slopes that would limit sun exposure.

Soil type: Different kinds of fruit trees thrive in different soil types. Soil testing can help you determine your soil type and whether it meets the requirements for your chosen fruit trees.

Drainage: Proper drainage is essential for fruit tree growth. Assess whether your site is adequately draining or if there are water logging issues.

Climate: Different fruit trees have different environmental requirements. Consider such factors as frost, wind exposure, and humidity.

Prepare the soil by clearing, tilling, and amending it with organic matter like compost or manure. Good soil preparation will make a big difference in the health and productivity of your fruit trees.

Second: Start With the Smallest Trees and Work Up

The first fruit trees you should plant are the ones that require the least amount of growing space. You'll want to plant those that produce smaller fruits or those that can be trained into smaller forms, such as espaliered fruit trees. Some of the most commonly planted small fruit trees include dwarf apple and pear trees, crabapple trees, cherry trees, and apricot trees.

As you plant each tree, space them appropriately. Generally, small fruit trees should be spaced about 10 to 15 feet apart. Keep in mind the distance required by mature trees for optimal growth and productivity.

Third: Pollinators are Next in Line

If you've just planted some fruit trees that require cross-pollination, the next tree on your list should be a pollinator. A pollinator is another fruit tree that blooms at the same time and produces compatible pollen to fertilize the fruit tree flowers. Some of the most common pollinators include crabapple, cherry, peach, and plum trees.

Ensure that pollinators are planted within 50 feet of the tree they're meant to pollinate. It's also essential to select the right kind of compatible pollinator for each tree.

Fourth: Large Trees for Shade and Wind Protection

Now it's time to plant the larger fruit trees, the ones that will grow to their full size and provide shade and wind cover. These are usually trees like apple, cherry, peach, plum, and pear trees.

When selecting planting locations, look for a spot with the right sun exposure, good soil drainage, and enough space for the tree to grow to maturity. A good rule of thumb is to plant at least 20 feet away from other trees and structures that might obstruct sunlight, airflow, or water drainage.

Fifth: Berries and Groundcover Plants

Berries and groundcover plants are an excellent addition to your fruit tree garden. They not only provide a beautiful ground cover, but they are also great for attracting beneficial insects and pollinators to your garden. Consider planting strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, or blueberries, or perhaps herbs such as thyme or oregano.

When planting berries and groundcover plants, make sure you choose the right kind for your climate and soil type. Some berries require more acidic soil, while others can tolerate less. Space them far enough from your fruit trees to avoid competition for water and nutrients.

The Bottom Line

Planting fruit trees is an investment that requires careful thought and planning. The best order to plant your fruit trees is to start with the smallest trees and work your way up in size. Incorporating pollinators, considering placement for sun exposure, drainage, and wind protection can make all the difference in the health and productivity of your fruit trees. And don't forget to add berries and groundcover plants for a beautiful and functional garden. With the right care and attention, you'll enjoy delicious fruits for years to come.