Don’t pack away your gardening tools and thoughts of outdoor planting just because winter has arrived!
In fact, winter is the best time for avid gardeners to plant fruit trees. The cool weather allows new roots to grow deep and strong, giving your tree a better chance of thriving in the summer months ahead.
Fruit trees are great additions to any garden, providing shade, beauty and a bounty of nutritious fruit. Because who doesn’t love a homemade apple pie, crisp pear tarts or a bowl of freshly picked strawberries?
If you’ve never considered planting fruit trees in the winter or you’re searching for tips for success, read on. Here’s what you need to know about successful winter planting:
Select Your Fruit Tree Variety
When selecting your fruit tree, it’s important to think about where you live and what kind of climate you have. Some trees thrive in certain climates and won’t do well in others.
Make sure the variety you choose fits your climate so that it can adapt to its environment and grow successfully.
It’s also a good idea to decide which type of fruit you want to grow. Do you prefer apples, peaches, cherries or plums? Make sure the variety you select will produce the desired fruits.
Additionally, it’s important to consider how much space your tree needs to grow and if there are any specific soil requirements. For example, if your soil absorbs moisture quickly, you’ll need to look for a drought-tolerant tree.
Popular Fruit Trees to Grow
There are numerous fruit trees to choose from, so you can pick the best variety for your climate.
Some of the most popular include:
- Apples
- Pears
- Peaches
- Plums
- Apricots
- Cherries
- Citrus fruits
You can also find varieties that are multi-seasonal and produce different kinds of fruit throughout the year.
Preparing the Garden Bed
The most important step in planting any type of tree is getting the soil prepared correctly.
It’s essential to dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of your tree and then fill it back in with soil amended with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
This will help provide nutrients and moisture for the roots of your tree and allow them to establish themselves quickly.
Watering Fruit Trees in Winter
It is crucial that you water your newly planted tree regularly after planting it. This will help keep the roots moist while they are establishing themselves in their new home.
Make sure you regularly monitor the soil around your tree, as it should stay consistently moist but not soggy throughout winter.
It’s a good idea to water your tree at least twice a week during the frigid months.
Mulching Around the Fruit Tree
Adding mulch around your newly planted tree can also help keep its roots warm and insulated from cold temperatures that may occur during winter months.
Mulch also helps retain moisture in the soil, which will help keep your tree healthy during its first season of growth.
You should do this by layering a few inches of organic matter around the tree, making sure to leave space for the trunk and roots to breathe.
Be careful not to let the mulch touch your tree’s trunk, as this can cause it to rot.
Protecting the Tree From Rodents and Other Critters
Fruit trees can be attractive targets for hungry rodents, such as squirrels or mice, who are looking for food sources during winter months when other food sources may be scarce.
Fruit cages are a great way to protect your fruit tree from diseases and pests. The mesh cages can be placed around the tree and cover it completely, allowing sunlight and airflow while keeping out pesky critters.
Your fruit cage should be big enough to allow the tree to grow and spread its branches but small enough that it’s easy to maintain and monitor.
Check your fruit cage regularly for any signs of disease or pests, so you can take care of them right away.
Fertilising Fruit Trees in Winter Months
Fertiliser can be beneficial for newly planted fruit trees, especially if applied early in their life cycle.
Choose a fertiliser specifically designed for fruit trees – this will provide vital nutrients that will help them grow strong and healthy for years to come!
Apply fertiliser at least once during winter months before budding begins in early springtime. You’ll need to follow the instructions on the packaging and make sure it’s applied evenly to ensure your tree is getting all the nutrients it needs.
Key Takeaways: Make Planting Fruit Trees Your Winter Garden Project
Winter is just as good a time as any to start your very own fruit garden.
Before getting started, you’ll want to research which fruit tree species will work best for your environment and the available space. Prepping the soil for your fruit tree is essential; if you take the correct actions to prepare the space for your tree, you’re more likely to be successful.
With a little care and attention, your fruit trees can bear delicious fruits for years!