There are many factors to consider before purchasing a fruit tree, and many are dependent on the type of tree you will be purchasing. However, there are several guidelines that apply to most fruit trees. It is important to examine the space you are considering planting your tree in. How much space is there? Is there constant sunlight? Now, consider the climate you live in. Refer to the zone map for trees and determine what zone you live in. This map will often tell you what type of trees will be successful if planted in your zone. The next thing to consider is chill hours. Chill hours are hours under 45 degrees Fahrenheit and are the number of hours needed for the tree to set fruit. Different fruit trees require different amounts of chill hours. For example, certain cherry trees need 700 hours of chill time. These cherry trees should not be attempted to be grown in Florida, because the area will never get 700 hours of chill time. Different fruit trees also require different amounts of maintenance. If you’d prefer not to spend hours in your yard each week, research low maintenance fruit trees. If your fruit tree is more prone to insects and disease, you will also want to research the best prevention methods for your tree. We understand that there are many factors to consider before purchasing a fruit tree that will thrive in your yard. We strive to make the process of purchasing your tree as stress-free as possible. If you have any questions or concerns about what trees will thrive in your yard, our team of experts are happy to help answer your questions.
There is nothing better than eating fresh fruit from your own backyard. We are excited that you are interested in beginning your fruit tree journey. Most of our trees are planted in late winter or early spring. Luckily, our hot and humid climate here in Florida allows for fruit trees to be planted in late fall as well. When you’re ready to plant your tree, dig a hole twice as wide and twice as deep as the bare-root tree you are planting. At the bottom of the hole, create a cone shape in the dirt and spread the roots out and down. Next, you’ll want to backfill the hole with loose dirt and a layer of compost. Remove all the broken roots and keep the level of dirt at the same level it was at our nursery. Give us a call if you’ve forgotten or are unsure about the level we had the dirt. Next, create a mote around the base of your tree. This will allow the water to filter down onto the roots as opposed to running off into the surrounding soil or land. When you’re planting your tree, use a small amount of water. When the soil settles, you’ll be able to see where you need to add more dirt. Remember, not to overwater in the winter months. During the first three summers, you’ll want to water your tree once a week if there’s no rainfall. It’s important to remember that it takes an average of seven years before you can harvest a sizeable crop from your fruit trees. Most of our bare rootstocks are a few years old, but please ask us for more specifics or if we have any older stock. Typically, the older the stock, the more expensive it is.