1. Plant about a month after first killing frost in the fall or a month before the last killing frost in spring.
2. Select a planting site with good air drainage, full sunlight, and deep well drained soil.
3. The soil should be well prepared prior to planting. Take advantage of Soil Testing Services available through local Cooperative Extension Services, also apply needed lime and fertilizer. In a lawn, spade up the areas to be planted, and work in these changes.
4. Never expose the roots of nursery trees to freezing or drying conditions. If not planted immediately, trees should be held dormant in refrigerated storage or “heeled in” a trench of moist soil in a shady location.
5. When the soil is dry enough for proper planting, dig each hole large enough to hold the roots without bending. Hold the tree in place so that the bud union is 2 to 3 inches above ground level.
Begin filling the hole, first with pulverized top soil and then the subsoil. Tamp backfill soil thoroughly to eliminate air pockets. Before the hole is completely filled with soil, add no less than 2 gallons of water.
6. At planting, fruit trees should be headed back to 30” above the ground. Remove all damaged limbs. This process allows branches to form at proper levels, improves the strength of the tree and provides a balance between the top and the roots.
