Preparing your Tree

Cut off broken roots and extra branches before planting to ensure that your tree will be healthy and won't wilt after planting.

Pruning

You need to make sure that there are not more branches on your tree than its roots can support.
Pruning Shears

Preparing your Tree for Planting

When your tree was dug from the field, some roots were broken. Use a sharp pair of pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut away broken roots just above the break. Make all cuts to roots and branches at a 45° angle.

Because many small roots that absorb water and nutrientsNutrients

All of the substances that promote the healthy metabolism of an organism. Main plant nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, sulfur and magnesium. were left behind when you tree was dug, it now has more leaves and branches than its roots can support. To balance your tree, cut away all but three branches. Leave branches that grow away from the trunk in different directions and are spaced at least a few inches apart vertically. Shorten these branches by cutting off a quarter to half of each. Finally, cut the trunk a few inches above the highest branch. Make all cuts just beyond a bud aimed in the direction you want the tree to grow. If your tree looks badly wilted a day after you plant, further shorten branches.

PreviousWhere to Plant

It is important to plant your tree in a place where it gets plenty of sunlight and is away from buildings, sidewalks and other trees.  HomePlanting Guide

Here you can find out how to plant your fruit tree and how to care about it so that it grows up healthy.  NextPlanting your Tree

Here's the most important step! Following these instructions closely will ensure that your tree flourishes.