Site Selection – Planting and Maintenance of Fruit Trees

Site Selection – Planting and Maintenance of Fruit Trees

We have discussed planting seedlings, seeds and cuttings. However, there are very few homes in our beautiful country that does not have a fruit tree in its yard. So how do we plant fruit trees?

Transplanting Fruit Trees
• Choose trees that suit the space
• Plant trees at least 8m (25ft) away from all structures to prevent damage by roots
• Ensure trees are staked 15 cm from its base to secure it from toppling
• Dig a hole large enough to facilitate the whole root ball with extra space for the stake
• Add 2 parts soil to 1 part manure and 30 g of 12:24:12  fertilizer and add to planting hole

Soil and Water Conservation

If you are planting on hillsides there are several management practices that aide in soil and water conservation

• Crop Rotations
  • Relay planting (sowing second crop while the first is still in the ground)
  • Contour cultivation and planting
  • Use of organic matter ( improves soil structure, fertility and moisture holding capacity)
  • Laying crop residue or mulch on exposed soil (impede water flow)
  • Diversification of farm enterprise
  • Maintenance of forest at the upper end of slopes
  • Protection of land with cover crops during fallow period
  • Confinement of animals so they do not cause erosion or compaction of soil

Please see our Home Gardening Album for relevant factsheets pertaining to this video https://www.facebook.com/pg/ETIS-Division-103936031246037/photos/?tab=album&album_id=118130909826549

Video – Site Selection Planting and Maintenance of Fruit Trees

https://www.facebook.com/103936031246037/videos/vb.103936031246037/221413072254833/?type=2&theater

Information courtesy the Extension Training and Information Services (ETIS) Division

Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries