At this time of year, many minds aren’t focused on their garden, despite the risk of storm damage to trees. However, there are certain species that you may want to plant during the winter months, such as fruit trees. Coming in many different forms, there’s lots to consider when planting this type of tree around your property.
Here are some tips for growing and pruning fruit trees in your garden.
When and where should you plant fruit trees?
In the UK, the best time of year for planting fruit trees will depend on several factors, such as the species chosen, weather conditions and the soil type. The tree you choose should come with specific instructions about where and when to plant it in your garden. However, a general rule for the best time of year for fruit tree planting is between December and March.
Different trees can have varying needs, including how much shade they require and how large they grow. You should also think about other wildlife that trees may attract, the type of fruit you like, when the fruit will be available and any maintenance requirements.
For example, some domestic apple trees may require cross-pollination, so several need planting in one space. The ideal growing conditions are in well-drained and fertile soil with partial shade or a sunny spot. Therefore, when deciding on the right position for fruit tree planting, consider the amount of sunlight, soil conditions and how large the tree will grow.
How to look after a young fruit tree
Once your fruit tree or bush has been planted, you’ll need to protect it from animals that may reach early yields. Trees also require watering during dry weather in their growing season (usually between April and September). Dark green leaves indicate a healthy fruit tree, so keep an eye on this during optimal growing months.
Young plants like apple and pear trees will need a good amount of formative pruning in the first two years to ensure they become well-established, have a balanced branch system and start to produce fruit. Pruning should take place during dormant months between November and early March (after the leaves have fallen but before new buds burst). The best formative pruning techniques include cutting back the central stem and removing lower branches, but you can ask an arborist for help with any tree pruning needs.
Other fruit tree pruning tips
Once your fruit tree has passed its formative years and established itself in your garden, you can create a suitable pruning schedule, depending on your aims. For example, winter pruning can encourage rapid future growth in species such as quince, pear and apple trees.
Spring and summer pruning can be completed for trees you want to keep under control while removing any deadwood. For example, plum, cherry, peach and apricot trees can be lightly pruned in the summer months.
However, Autumn fruit tree pruning isn’t advised, as mild weather conditions may encourage new growth when the tree is ready to go into its dormant season.
Need more tree pruning advice? Call our team
At DH Tree Services, we offer our tree care solutions all year round, covering Surrey and SW London locations such as Kingswood and Sutton. For all enquiries and advice, please contact us today.
