Step 1: Dig a hole at least wide enough for the roots of your tree so that none of them are bent. Make it deep enough for the tree's roots to be completely covered. A wider hole is better, if possible, since that will make it easier for the tree to grow. Then chip away at the sides of your hole to break any compacted soil - this will make it easier for your tree's roots to grow beyond the initial hole.
Step 2: Most Bare root trees from Bay Laurel Nursery do not need to be staked. But if yours does, use at least a five or six foot garden stake hammered about two feet into the bottom of the hole a little off center on the southern side, if possible.
Step 3: Make a mound of soil a few inches high in the bottom of the hole with what you dug out. Pat the soil down.
Step 4: Carefully place your fruit tree in to the hole, centered on the mound and spreading its roots. The tree has a graft union (sometimes called a bud union) visible where the root stock is grafted to the trunk. This should be placed slightly above the existing ground level. It is better to plant a little high than low since trees often settle.
Step 5: Start filling in the excavated soil that you have amended into the hole, carefully covering over just the roots. Gently pat down the soil a little and then water to help the soil settle around the roots.
Step 6: Use any leftover soil to build a raised circle around the tree to keep water in. Ideally, the circle should be about four feet in diameter. Placing organic material such as leaves, mulch or bark inside the circle can help protect the tree's roots and help water retention. Make sure that you keep any mulch away from the trunk of the tree.
