CAUTION:The information and recommendations in this article are applicable to Harnett County, NC and may not apply in other areas.

 GROWING TREE FRUIT, 08/27/97

 Have you ever planted a fruit tree that just never produced or died after only a couple of years? Fruit trees such as apples, pears, and peaches require a tremendous amount of care. But when cared for properly, the rewards are abundant.

Late fall is an excellent time to plant fruit trees, so now is the time to start planning. The first step is selecting the site. Be sure to consider soil, sunlight, and air drainage.

Fruit trees will not tolerate "wet feet", so well drained soil is critical. Avoid the wet spots in your yard, and plant in raised beds if necessary.

In addition to the routine soil sample, you should also check for nematodes. To do this, take a second soil sample from the planting area. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will analyze the sample for a nominal fee.

Full sunlight is also a must. This means at least six hours of sunlight per day. Planting in a shady spot will guarantee little or no harvest, and increased disease problems.

Air drainage is important too. Cold air is heavy, and tends to collect in low spots. By planting near the top of a slope, you may keep from losing your crop during the all too common late frost.

 Varieties should be selected carefully. Give me a call for a list of varieties recommended for this part of North Carolina. Remember that your favorite grocery store selection may be grown in South Carolina, Washington State or even New Zealand. Not all of these varieties will grow well in our region.

Apples and pears are normally cross-pollinated, which means you normally need to plant at least two different varieties. Peaches, however, are self-pollinated, so one variety is sufficient.

I simply cannot over-stress the importance of soil. In my humble opinion, it is one of the most valuable resources we have. We depend on it for all our sustenance. Take the time to prepare the soil properly, and the soil will take care of your fruit tree.

This means mixing in the recommended lime and fertilizer, and digging a planting hole large enough that the roots have room to grow.

Fruit trees are normally grafted, which means the tree you purchase consists of the root from one variety attached to the top of another. This way, we have a rootstock which is adapted to our soils, and a top portion which produces high quality fruit. This is why planting a peach pit or apple seed rarely leads to a productive tree. When planting, be sure to note the graft union (point where the two portions are joined). The graft union is found near the base of the tree, and should be just above the soil line when planted.

Now that you are off to a good start, protect your investment by taking good care of it. Control of weeds, insects, and diseases through a regular spray program is a necessary ingredient for success. Training and pruning keeps trees healthy and promotes abundant, high quality fruit.

Questions? Contact Paul McKenzie

www.ces.ncsu.edu/harnett/pubs/planttalk/planttlk.html