APPLE ORCHARD PLANTING Training Day February 2009

INTRODUCTION

Irrespective of type, all trees establish more easily and effectively if planted small. Furthermore, if so planted, these trees will tend to thrive, grow larger and live longer than those that undergo the physiological shock of being moved as large specimens. Trees planted small also tend to have a stronger root system which is less prone to windthrow during storms.

PRE-PLANTING

Grass and weeds should be removed from the planting site prior to planting either by physical stripping of each pit site. If the site is compacted, a pit wider than the spread of the tree roots and deep enough to break through the compacted pan should be dug immediately prior to planting. Pits dug in advance fill with water and thereby causes damage to the soil structure. If soil structure is good, disturbance during planting should be minimised and a system similar to forestry ‘notch' planting used with small trees. The only soil improvement should consist of relieving compaction and removing large stones. No organic material should be dug in. A slow release fertiliser may be useful in the backfill on poor soils.

PLANTING SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED TREES

Field or container grown trees up to 6-7 feet (1.8-2.1 metres) tall can be successfully established without staking. The tree should be firmly planted about 1-2 inches (4-5 cm) below its previous level in soil or pot. If the top growth is dense and out of proportion with the roots, thin out the head to reduce wind resistance. It is generally inadvisable to cut the dominant central ‘leader'. On windy sites don't stake! Plant smaller trees.

PLANTING LARGE TREES

In certain situations it is necessary to plant large ‘standard' or ‘heavy standard' trees. They have to be staked to anchor the roots whilst they establish. These should be short stakes that protrude no more than 12 inches (30 cm) above ground. The stem must be allowed to sway in the wind to strengthen it and encourage the roots to spread. Tall staking stops this. The short stakes should be in place for one growing season and then removed.

GRAFT UNIONS

Fruit trees should be planted with the union above ground to stop the scion variety making its own roots.

POST PLANTING TREATMENT

An area of at least 3 feet (1 m) diameter should be kept weed free for 2-3 years minimum. This can be achieved with a mulch or organic material or polythene or a mulch mat. An application of manure around the tree can be beneficial, particularly in the second season after planting.

GUARDING YOUNG TREES

In many situations, particularly domestic gardens, no form of guard is necessary. A plastic spiral guard should be used if rabbits are a threat. The presence of hare of deer will require a taller ‘tree tube', up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall to ward off Red Deer . Remember that newly planted trees may prove attractive to domestic livestock. Therefore, check boundary fences. A couple of sheep or bullocks overnight can cause immense damage.

VARIETIES LESS PRONE TO PEST AND DISEASE ATTACK

Winter Gem - Blenheim Orange - Ellison's Orange - Jumbo - Scrumptious
Tyedeman's Late Orange - Red Windsor - Chivers Delight - Egremont Russett

STOCKISTS AND SUPPLIERS

Frank P Matthews Ltd
Wholesale Fruit & Ornamental Trees & Rootstocks
Berrington Court
Tenbury Wells
Worcestershire WR15 8TH
Tel: 01584 810214

VARIETIES PLANTED AT UPPER WILTING FARM, FEBRUARY 2009