The following step by step instructions provide a general guideline. Please note that planting is site-specific, and methods can vary depending on the location.
Most tropical fruit trees need to be grown in full sun, which means 6 to 8 hours of sun daily. By providing the tree with plenty of sunlight, there will be better fruit production and tree growth.
Planting
-
Dig a hole wider and deeper than the tree container.
-
Place the tree in the ground so that the soil level of the tree is even with the soil of the ground. Avoid burying the trunk as this can negatively affect the tree’s health. Avoid planting the tree too high as you don’t want to expose the roots to the sun.
-
Build a small basin 2-3 feet around from the trunk to hold the excess water when watering. This will help prevent water run-off.
-
Apply compost and fertilizer, mixing it slightly within the top 2-3 inches of soil. Make sure to spread the mix 2-3 feet out from the center of the trunk to encourage the roots to grow out into the fertilized area.
-
Water the tree thoroughly so any air pockets in the soil get filled in and the entire root zone is saturated.
-
Apply mulch 4 to 6 inches thick (using wood chips or similar) in a 6-foot diameter circle.
Click here for more information about How to Care for your Fruit Tree
Dig a hole deeper and wider than the plant container.
Invert the plant in the container so that you carefully pull the container off the root ball
Once the container is off the root ball, use both hands to gently turn the plant over
Assess which direction to position the tree in for best visual positioning
Gently place the rootball in the hole and make sure the height of the soil with your tree is at the same height as the soil you are planting in
Make sure the soil with your new tree is at the same height as the ground level
Fill in the hole with loose soil, padding down gently and evenly around the root ball
Mix in fertilizer and create a basin for water to settle into, and mulch