Apple and pear trees

Pete.g

Hi can any of you keen gardeners tell me the best time of year to plant apple and pear trees? Is it anytime or does it have to be specific?

Thanks,

Pete.

economiser

If bare rooted then autumn is the time. If container grown any time will do but I would suggest cold wet soil in winter best avoided. Now is a good time whatever you have.

martindow

The best thing is to plant them when they are dormant - November to March. They will get a chance to establish themselves early and not need much watering during the summer. If you plant trees at other times of the year they need a lot more care and attention. I would get small plants that will not need staking, just a rabbit guard to protect the bark if rabbits are about in your area.

You need to check if the trees are self fertile or whether you need to plant more than one for good fruiting. For the first couple of years you are supposed to take off the fruits as that lets the tree really gain strength and establish itself - but you need more willpower than me to do that!

You should be able to buy cheaper bare rooted trees (rather than pot grown) from specialist nurseries like this http://www.keepers-nursery.co.uk/default.aspx (lots of good advice on their site).

Good luck!

Dammam

It all depends - if you're a cockney, I've never heard of a stair tree! Makes them easier to climb I guess.

Sorry - silly Sunday night. I'll get my coat.