How to plant your fruit trees

When deciding what fruit tree to plant it is important to consider whether you are looking for a tree that will give you sweet dessert fruit or you are looking for a tree that will give you fruit you can cook or make preserves with;

If you are concerned about the space you have available to plant your fruit tree remember it is possible to find fruit trees that have dwarf rootstocks which limit their size but not their yield potential;

You will need a location for your tree that is nearby another pollinating partner tree so that the flowering and pollination seasons co-inside;

Ensure that you select a spot in your garden or on your patio that has favourable micro-climatic conditions. You are looking for a sunny spot which isn't too windy or exposed to frost;

When planting in a pot ensure that the outer roots are loosened from the main root system in order that they make take root in the soil as soon as possible. Also, ensure that you insert a support stake into the pot to steady the growing plant against the elements;

A hole deep enough to accommodate the root system needs to dug when planting your fruit tree in your garden. Loosen the soil and insert a support stake. Work in some rich compost into the soil to ensure that the young tree will be well nourished ;

Position the tree in the hole so that it is upright. Ensure that the roots are extended from the root ball to give the plant support. Cover the root system with loose soil and tie the young fruit tree to the support stake;

Water well and firm up the soil around the plant. Cover with rotting garden organic matter to hydrate and feed the young tree;

Sit back and watch your mini-orchard grow.