Tips for growing fruit trees

Fruit trees are a good choice not only as the centrepiece of a nicely laid-out backyard, but also as a means of feeding a family. They need plenty of sun and dry soil in order to produce abundant fruit. Here's how to have one of your own.

Always consider tree maintenance before planting. If space is limited, an espalier tree may be a good choice. Placing any type of tree in a protected location helps reduce the chance of damage from frost.

In order for a fruit tree to produce the healthiest fruit buds possible, provide them with plenty of nutrients, as early as the summer before. In the latter half of July, dig a trench around the trunk halfway to the drip edge of the crown, and pour in a diluted slurry of cow manure or comfrey. A fruit tree of medium size needs about 30 litres (30 quarts) of slurry.

When choosing a fruit tree, look for a straight trunk, strong and well-distributed side branches, and strong roots. Fruit trees prefer permeable soil; the roots can't survive heavy, damp soils.

• During transport and up to the time of planting, keep the roots moist. It's a good idea to wrap the root ball in a sheet of plastic.
• Water bare-root plants about fours hours before planting. Then remove any rotten or damaged root parts. Cut the roots a little bit so they draw water better after planting.
• When planting in rocky ground, dig a larger hole and give the seedling an ample amount of good earth and compost.
• Give a tree the right support and a good foothold; drive a stake into the soil on the west side of the tree. It should reach into the crown. Pantyhose are great for tying the tree up; they stretch easily and are soft enough that they won't harm the tree.
• Wrap the trunks of young trees with straw, reeds, or jute strips to prevent drying out and cracking due to sun or frost.