I live in Friendswood and would like to plant some fruit trees in my backyard. Below is a photo of my backyard. I have some raised vegetable beds on the left and would like to add some fruit trees along the back fence line. I could really use some advice on how to plant fruit trees in a FULLY SODDED YARD with CLAY SOIL. I have read many conflicting opinions. Some say dig a hole and back fill with only the soil that came from the ground. Others say add some compost to the soil or plant the tree on a mound. How big of a mound? Made with what material? Top soil? I am so confused! Also what kind of
spacing would you suggest between trees. I would like to try a 3-in-1 apple, fig, peach, orange, maybe avocado.
Location, drainage and spacing are critical to young citrus trees. You'll want a full sun site that drains well, and all the better if it's protected from north winds. I can't tell from the photo which way your fence runs but it should provide some protection. You'll want a minimum of 12-16 feet of space for small citrus trees, and 19-20 feet for larger varieties. Dig a whole wide enough to contain the root ball with about six inches to spare. You'll want the top of the root ball to sit two inches or so above the area surrounding your tree. Backfill with the soil you dug out to make the hole. Do not fertilize until you see new growth on the tree. Apply a two inch layer of mulch — but make sure you don't pile up the mulch around the trunk – leave a few inches of space around the trunk. Do not over water and protect trees from freezes with cloth or tenting.
Avocados are very cold sensitive. I wouldn't plant one unless it's protected from north winds. Satsumas (Owari is an excellent variety) and figs (Texas Everbearing) grow very well in your area.
Once your citrus tree has sprouted new growth, it's OK to fertilize as per the directions on the package. I fertilize twice a year, in mid-February and again in mid-May. But I know others who fertilize three times a year with excellent results.
Login 
Register 
Members 
Search 
Home
Print this Topic 
Reply to Post
Add a New Topic
Quote and Reply 
Topic RSS 
