Bare-root fruit trees can be planted from October to March. Here’s how to start your own orchard
Dig a hole, no deeper than the roots but at least three times the diameter of the roots system.
Prepare the soil by loosening it at the bottom of the hole and then mixing in some organic matter. Tease out the roots prior to planting and place in the hole.
Refill with soil, making sure that any gaps around the roots system are filled. Small trees won't need staking but larger ones will.
Firm the soil and water the tree in well, continuing to water regularly for the first year.
This advice was taken from a feature by Simple Things’ gardening guru Cinead McTernan. For more inspiration on growing fruit trees (and eating from them), pick up our February issue, which has wisdom on all things orchard from Raymond Blanc, including the secret to the best apple crumble in the world…
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