Fruit Tree Care Guidance
Plant Care for Your Newly Installed Plants
Congratulations on the installation of your fruit trees! Yes, fruit tree care is more hands-on compared to other plants, but it’s not impossible and doesn’t have to be a hassle. Below are general care directions for your newly installed plants. Please note that different plants have unique needs, and while these general care instructions should cover most scenarios, it may be beneficial to research each plant individually for more specific guidance, or when in doubt, just ask us!
1. Watering
a. Water for the first week of the installation daily. It’s best to do so at the base of the plant. Fruit trees are susceptible to issues, so the less water in the canopy the better. The easiest way to tell if the planting is getting enough is simply by feeling the soil. Dig down a few inches next to the tree and see if the soil is moist or dry. Dry soil means it’s time to water and wet soil means hold off.
*Watering Tip: It is better to water deeply and less frequently rather than shallow and more often. This encourages the plant’s roots to grow deeper into the soil, seeking moisture, and thus helping to establish a strong, healthy plant. Water at the base of the plant to get the whole root system. Do not water directly on the leaves or foliage, as it does not allow the plant to really drink the water being given.
2. Fertilizing
a. When fruit trees are first planted, the priority is to encourage them to grow roots by maintaining even soil moisture in good-quality soil. A slow-release,
balanced fertilizer applied in the early spring should be sufficient for your plants. These applications provide well balanced meals that last for months.
Your plants have been installed with high quality soil amendments and Holly-tone and Plant-tone fertilizer to match their respective plants. When reading a fertilizer label, see what the plant is actually receiving and if it supports the fruiting and flowering or just adding growth.
3. Monitoring and Maintenance
- Keep an eye on your plants for signs of stress or disease. Overwatering can cause yellowed leaves and defoliation. Underwatering can cause curled leaves and defoliation. They’ll often display droopy leaves, and in some cases, drop leaves prematurely. Unusual spots or pests are signs something might be off.
Try to identify and address problems as soon as you can. - Saplings are around 1-4 years old with limited branching. They’ll need some extra protection in the winter or other extreme weather conditions and regular watering. The fruit and flowers might be present but not fully developed since most of the energy is going to the roots to establish themselves. It’ll take around 3 years to become established in a location, so be consistent and keep a lookout to catch any issues before they get out of hand. Inground plants should be wrapped or covered with materials to keep the cold out. Frost blankets are great to help insulate your plants. If you’re running on a tight budget, consider using old sheets or burlap. Whatever you choose, be sure the material is breathable (you don’t want your plant to suffocate).
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call us! 860-404-5747 or email us
Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy your garden. It is there for your pleasure and peace.
Happy gardening!
Larson’s Garden Center and Landscaping
26 Covey Road • Burlington, CT 06013 • 860-404-5747 • LarsonsGardenCenter.com
Dated: 2024
