Autumn is an ideal time for planting trees, as the root system has enough time to establish itself before the winter season begins. Proper preparation is key to ensuring healthy tree growth. This includes preparing the planting site and the pit, which can help protect your trees from diseases and support their growth for years to come.
Preparing the Pit: Why It’s Crucial
The planting pit will provide essential nutrients to the tree for the next 5-7 years. It’s important to ensure that the pit is well-prepared, with the right amount of useful substances that promote healthy development.
- Pit Size:
- For a tree that is 30 to 50 cm tall, the pit should be at least 60-80 cm in diameter and 70-80 cm deep.
- For a columnar apple tree, a smaller pit of 50 x 50 x 50 cm is sufficient.
Filling the Pit with Nutrients
The pit should be filled with a nutrient-rich mixture to support the tree’s growth. Here’s how to prepare the soil:
- Mix the Topsoil: Take the top layer of earth and combine it with compost, peat, manure, and humus for added nutrients.
- Improve Drainage: If the soil is clay-heavy, add sand in a 1:1 ratio to improve drainage.
- Add Fertilizer: Add 8 handfuls of complex mineral fertilizer to the mix to ensure the soil is rich in essential nutrients.
- Layering the Soil: Lay down the mixture in layers, sprinkling fertilizer between each layer, and then tamp it down firmly. The upper layer of the pit should be about 20 cm higher than the surrounding ground level. This will ensure that after a few years, the tree remains well above the pit’s surface and does not get buried over time.
Planting the Tree
Once the pit is ready, follow these steps to plant the tree properly:
- Create a Deepening for the Roots: Dig a shallow hole in the center of the pit that matches the size of the seedling’s roots.
- Place the Seedling: Position the seedling carefully in the pit, ensuring it is straight and at the right height.
- Water the Seedling: Pour water around the roots to help them settle into the soil.
- Cover with Soil: Sprinkle the roots with soil from the prepared pit, and compact it after 10 minutes to eliminate air pockets.
- Support the Tree: Place three sticks around the tree and tie them together in a figure-eight shape for support. The sticks should be driven into the ground to a depth of at least 80 cm to ensure stability.
By following these steps, you can plant trees in autumn with the best chances of strong growth and a healthy start, ensuring they endure the winter and thrive for many years to come.
