Technology of planting apple trees with seedlings in spring
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Selecting a seedling
How to plant an apple tree correctly in the spring when temperatures aren't too high? First, you need to purchase seedlings. Knowing how to choose apple tree seedlings will help you achieve successful results. A gardener's decision may be influenced by several factors, including the region's climate and, consequently, the survival rate of certain varieties.
It is best to choose apple tree seedlings in the spring not at spontaneous markets or from individuals, but in tree nurseries or specialty stores. It's crucial that apple tree seedlings are stored properly. A slightly frost-damaged tree is unlikely to thrive in your garden. Furthermore, varietal characteristics are a common issue. At the market, you might be assured a thousand times that you're buying a specific variety of apple tree, the one you've been looking for. But in reality, you're buying a completely different variety.
Another important consideration when selecting seedlings for planting is their integrity. Inspect the tree. It should be free of damage or any other defects. Any such defects can impact the plant's survival rate and yield.
Preparing the soil and planting hole
Spring planting of young apple trees begins with preparing the soil. Not everyone is lucky with the quality of their soil. When planting young apple trees in the spring with seedlings, it's crucial to ensure the soil is properly balanced. Waterlogged, gravelly, or rocky soil is not the best option for growing these types of plants.
If the soil quality in your region is fine, it might seem like you can plant the tree directly in the ground. But will it take root? The best option is to prepare the soil in advance. To do this, dig up the area where you plan to plant the young seedlings in the spring in the fall. Then, in the spring, all you need to do is loosen the soil and prepare the planting hole. This last step involves the following:
- Prepare a hole that is about 70 cm deep and 60 cm in diameter.
- Preparing a hole for planting an apple tree also includes organizing drainage.
- It is recommended to install a stake in the center.
- Add peat, humus, compost and rotted manure to the excavated soil.
- Mix all components with soil and pour into the depth of the hole.
- Finally, water the substrate generously.
You can plant the purchased apple tree seedlings in the spring after the area has been tidied up.
Landing rules
Properly planting an apple tree seedling is the most important step for any gardener. To ensure proper planting, inspect the root system again immediately before planting. If you find any dry shoots or damaged root branches, be sure to trim them off. Sometimes, a few days after purchasing the seedlings, the roots may have dried out significantly. In this case, place them in a container of water for a few days. When it's time to plant, soak the apple tree's rootstock in a mixture of mullein and clay.
Add some black soil to the prepared hole: this will help prevent root burns caused by too much fertilizer. Once you've placed the seedling in the hole, tie it to the planting stake. Fill the roots with soil to fill any gaps; otherwise, the plant may dry out over time.
After planting the apple tree in the hole, water the hole and apply mulch to the top layer of soil. This will help retain moisture longer. By following the step-by-step instructions for planting one-year-old apple trees, you'll soon be enjoying nutritious and delicious fruits.
Further care
Knowing how to plant an apple tree in the spring will allow you to grow a whole orchard of fruit trees on your property. But caring for the apple tree you planted is just the beginning, as learning how to plant a young apple tree in the spring isn't enough. You also need to know how to care for it, especially during the first year.
The first thing to focus on is regular watering during the summer. At least once a week, pour a bucket of water into the hole around the tree. This will help the soil compact a few weeks after planting. Secondly, regularly remove weeds that appear between the plants. In the spring, be sure to add a little fresh soil around the trunks, as it settles noticeably after winter.
Initial care of the apple tree after planting also includes mulching the soil. Use chicken manure or rotted manure. Don't forget to cover the mulch with a layer of dry straw. This will not only nourish the soil and the apple tree seedlings but also prevent excessive moisture evaporation.
Another important aspect of apple tree care is pruning. It's recommended to do this every spring. Pruning helps create a lush crown, and old, dry, and damaged branches are always removed. Step-by-step instructions on how to plant an apple tree, the pattern, and how to care for the tree are all recommended rules for every gardener to remember. With these basic skills, you can grow apple trees in your garden.
Common mistakes
Even if you followed the basic rules and timing for planting a young apple tree in the spring, mistakes in caring for it are quite common. It's important to know not only how to plant an apple tree but also how to properly care for the tree. No matter how hard you try to follow step-by-step instructions, mistakes are common. Among the most common nuances that gardeners may simply overlook are the following:
- Lack of stakes. Regardless of how you look at it, planting and care will be successful if the trees grow properly. But without support, the plant will eventually lean.
- Feeding the tree with fresh manure. This isn't the best option for the root system;
- It is recommended to plant apple trees according to a specific plan, without mixing them with other fruit trees;
- Lack of space. Many Russian gardeners have problems with space in their gardens. There are so many unique varieties to try! But in the case of our plant, don't neglect the available space, otherwise the tree won't be able to develop to its full potential.
If you want to grow apple trees on your property, buy seedlings, but remember to follow the basic tips described above. Planting apple trees in the spring can be done without much difficulty if you understand the intricacies of the process.
Video: Preparing a Hole for Planting a Sapling
This video will show you how to properly prepare a hole for planting a seedling.