Bare root trees are straightforward to plant, but small mistakes at the beginning can affect establishment for years. This beginner-focused guide explains what commonly goes wrong and how to prevent it. For the complete procedure, use our step-by-step bare root tree planting guide.
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1. Choosing a Tree That Does Not Fit Your Climate
USDA hardiness zone indicates winter-survival potential, but fruit production can also depend on winter chill, summer heat, and the length of the growing season. Confirm both the recommended zone and chill-hour requirement for the specific variety.
2. Forgetting About Pollination
Some fruit trees are self-fruitful, while others need pollen from a compatible variety that blooms at the same time. Two trees of the same variety generally do not solve a cross-pollination requirement. Review the product’s pollination information before ordering.
3. Underestimating Mature Size
Plan for the tree’s mature canopy, rootstock, access for pruning, and clearance from structures, utilities, fences, and neighboring trees. A small dormant tree can eventually require much more room than its shipping size suggests.
4. Letting the Roots Dry Out
Open the package promptly and check that the material around the roots is moist. Keep roots protected from sun, wind, freezing, and drying while you prepare to plant. If planting must be delayed, follow the temporary storage or heeling-in instructions in our bare root tree care guide.
5. Planting Too Deeply
Plant at approximately the same depth the tree grew in the nursery. Keep the graft union above the final soil level, and account for settling after watering. Deep planting can reduce root oxygen and create long-term trunk and root problems.
6. Treating the Planting Hole Like a Container
Use a wide hole with gently sloping sides and avoid creating a small pocket of heavily amended soil. Encourage roots to move into the surrounding native soil. Break up glazed sides before backfilling.
7. Overwatering or Fertilizing Too Aggressively
Water thoroughly after planting, then maintain appropriate moisture without keeping the root zone continuously soggy. Avoid pushing tender top growth with excessive fertilizer before the root system is established.
8. Skipping Planting-Time Pruning and Protection
Remove damaged growth and follow species-appropriate planting-time pruning guidance. Where needed, protect young trunks from sunburn, rodents, deer, or equipment damage, and use a gopher basket in areas with active gopher pressure.
Your Best Next Step
Use the planting-day checklist before you begin, then follow the full planting instructions. Visit Fruit Tree Central for the complete fruit-tree library.
