Planting Pots: Utilizing a Different Approach
No matter the brand, makeup or design of the potted trees, they take a different approach from the typical bareroot trees we are all so familiar planting.
One very good thing to note, these can all be planted mechanically, given some adjustments in the equipment. If this can be done, consistency is very helpful in the future management of the block.
How to Plant Dormant Potted Trees
Hand planting potted trees.
Make sure you have drip irrigation ready to run.
How to Plant Potted Trees
Dormant Potted Trees
- Similar Needs to Bareroot Trees: These have very similar requirements or restrictions when compared to a standard bareroot tree. They are delivered and stored dormant and can therefore be planted when you would normally plant bareroot trees.
Water needs:
- Wetter the Soil, the Better: The earlier you plant, and the wetter the soil, the better. Once irrigation is available, be generous with the application. It can take a bit of time to get water to move from the orchard soil to the potted tree soil plug.
Regardless, all of your trees, bareroot or potted need to be thoroughly “watered in”.
Planting Green Growing Potted Trees
Handle small green growing potted trees with care and a lot of water.
How to Plant Potted Trees
Green Growing Potted Trees
- Delivered in April thru August: These trees are typically delivered after the threat of frost, which makes water the most critical element of their survival.
Water needs:
- Soak the Soil Plugs: Make sure the soil plugs are absolutely wet before planting. Soaking them in barrels or buckets of water is ideal.
- The First Hour is Critical: Once they are in the ground, they need water within the first hour. This can be done via a prepped and ready drip irrigation line with emitters at each tree stem or with a pull tank and hose with lots of water, followed by a drip hose. You will find that drip hose is your best tool in helping make the trees reach their full potential.
- Keep the Trees Watered Daily: Keep them wet daily until you see roots attaching to the orchard soil. Check to make sure the trees are wet, by putting your finger or probe right inside the pot and next to the stem. Keep this up for three or four weeks then reassess.
