Planting your Fruit Trees

We supply bare-root trees from November until March. For your tree to get away to a good start a little preparation is advisable.

Dig the planting hole a little larger than the root system. Fork over the bottom of the hole. Back-fill ensuring no air pockets are left between the roots consolidating the soil as you go along. It is best not to improve the soil in the planting hole much so as to encourage rooting into the surrounding soil.

If a stake is required insert before planting on the windward side. Staking on more exposed sites anchors the roots while they establish and should be considered a temporary measure for two or three yaers. However varieties on dwarfing rootstocks should be permanently staked because of their weaker rooting systems. Use short stakes and tie low down. The stem should be able to move in the wind with the roots held firm. Staking is often not required on sheltered sites.

You should aim to plant your tree at the same height as it was planted in the nursery with the graft union clear of soil level. Tie tree to stake. Do not allow the tree's roots to dry out during the planting process. Water if necessary. If rabbits are present use a spiral tree guard for protection. During the first season ensure the tree is well watered during dry spells, and remove any weed competition within a diameter of about 1m (3ft).

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Positioning your fruit trees

Growing fruit bushes

Pruning and training fruit trees

Cultivating and pruning fruit bushes