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Re: Size of hole for a fruit tree? Small or large?
It is important to check the roots before buying a tree or a shrub. If
only a few roots are crushed
prune them straight across with a sharp tool (as if cutting a garden
hose). Do not plant trees with
many wounds or damaged branches or with V-crotches.
Remember, You want to prepare a PLANTING SITE , not just a hole. Form a
dish-like area,
loosen the soil and remove the grass far beyond the drip line. It will
be harmful to do it after the tree
has taken roots. But to repeat, trees and grass don't grow well
together. Leave room for future
growth. Another point to remember is, as studies at the State U. of
North Carolina have shown, that
there is no need to fertilize at planting time and don't overdose in the
future with Nitrogen. Plant the
tree at the depth where the roots are coming off and not where the
burlap is. Do not prune the
crown to balance it with the roots. Brace only if the tree will not
remain upright in a moderate wind.
DO NOT USE WIRE IN A HOSE, but brace with CAMB GUARDS or the like.
Mulch with composted materials about 3-4" thick out to the drip line.
Avoid touching the tree trunk
with composted materials. Do not use fresh chips. Keep the soil moist to
the depth of the roots, out
the drip line but not water logged. Prune dead and decaying branches,
but wait for the second
growing season for shaping and organic fertilization. For more on
fertilization go here to a Touch of Chemistry.
http://www.pond.com/~treeman/SHIGO.html
--
John A. Keslick Jr.---Tree Anatomist & Tree Biologist.-
End Commercial Logging on Federal Lands
Organic Tree Treatment Web Site:
http://www.pond.com/~treeman
References: