Planting a fruit tree will probably be one of the most rewarding things that you decide to do…One of the benefits to planting fruit trees is the continuous production it gives year after year.
In this video I am planting a FlordaPrince Peach Tree LPrunus persica) which will be one among many varieties of fruit trees that I am adding to our backyard. I’m so excited! I chose this particular variety of peach tree because it only requires 150 chill hours and it can be a very prolific producer. To understand chill hours let me try and break it down for you. A chill hour is equal to an hour that the fruit tree is exposed to cooler temperatures. These temperatures range from 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 45 degrees Fahrenheit. So, my FlordaPrince Peach tree will need to spend 150 hours annually in-between this range of temperature in order to produce an abundance of fruit and to help maintain a healthier tree as it keeps natures cycle in balance.
The two most important things that I want you all to remember is HIGH & TIGHT! I learned this from watching Pete at GreenDreamsFL.
Let me explain…. You will want to plant the tree (root system) high. Planting it HIGH allows the roots ample *enriched-amended soil to feed from before reaching the sand or other less desirable soil that you may have to work with. This also helps to alleviate the roots from just sitting in water as this is called “Wet Feet” and fruit trees do not like to have wet feet as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Now, the next important thing to do is to pack the soil around the root system nice and TIGHT as it needs to be compact and pressed tightly in order for the roots to maintain proper contact for feeding and support.
Fruit trees will want to have full sun as this encourages blossoms and in return fruit. Plant your tree in a location that allows for a minimum of 6/8 hours Full Sun Daily.
Before planting your new tree be mindful of trees and other structures that may cast shadows upon your newly planted fruit tree which could inhibit its’ growth. Plant it in the Sun and watch it Grow!
It is important to keep the roots moist initially after planting until the tree is established and “taken root” so to speak. Keeping the roots and the soil around the roots moist (NOT WET) as it encourages growth.
Once established you will want to research the water requirement for the particular type of fruit tree that you are planting.