Winter Or Late Spring Tree Planting Guide
Digging
Hole should be twice the width of root system or root ball. Mix the soil 50/50, native soil/mulch. This 50/50 mix of soil allows the roots to acclimate to the native ground.
Plant Preparation
Prepare Plant or Tree Remove from container or bag, if roots are tightly bound carefully spread them slightly. If bare root evenly spread the roots downward and place a small cone shaped mound of dirt in the center of the hole for the tree roots to spread on. Place tree in 5 gallon bucket of water and soak for 5-10 minutes.
Planting
Do not plant too deep. Plant root ball so that it is slightly above surrounding soil level. Build a ring of soil around the tree 18 inches from the base, the ring should be 2 or 3 inches high. This water ring will allow you to retain water during prescribed watering and allow good drainage during times of rain.
Watering
Be careful not to overwater check the soil with your hand three days after planting and there has been no rain. Over-watering can cause premature fruit to drop, especially on persimmons. Planting fruit trees in sprinkled lawns is not recommended. Lack of deep watering can also cause fruit to drop. Fall shock or stress can effect next year’s fruit. It is critical that the tree location have good drainage.
Fertilizer
Lack of food at critical times can also adversely affect fruit production. For new plantings you can use 1 or 2 Agriform tablets. Trees three years and older apply Citrus & Fruit Tree Food.