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ONE GARDENER TO ANOTHER: January is the time to plant fruit-bearing trees. In northern Alabama, the apple varieties that work best for the area are Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and Law Rome. Apple trees require another tree for cross-pollination.
What is the best month to plant fruit trees?
Planting in the late winter or early spring is generally the best time to get your new fruit trees in the ground. As long as the ground isn’t too frozen to dig a hole, you should be good to go. Bare root stock should be planted in winter, while raspberries and blueberries can be planted into spring.
When should plant fruit trees?
Planting during winter is usually the best time for new fruit trees, but always avoid planting when the ground is frozen, or when bad weather is forecast. If your new trees are in containers, you can keep them in a cold garage until the weather improves.
What fruit grows best in Alabama?
In addition to peaches, above, there are many different fruits that can be grown in Alabama. Some of the easiest include blueberries, muscadines, figs, Asian persimmons, hard pears and blackberries. There are even some tropical or citrus fruit trees, including loquats, lemons, mandarins and satsumas.
What fruit tree grows in Alabama?
In the spring and early summer, plums and nectarines are in abundance. As summer progresses, peaches (the official state fruit of Alabama) come into their own, followed by figs and, as early as this month, even apples. More and more apple varieties will be available this fall as well as persimmons and pears.
Is June too late to plant fruit trees?
Many people like to plant fruit trees early in the spring so that they can grow throughout the summer and fall. It is suggested that if you plant toward the end of spring, such as late May or June, potted trees may do better.
Which fruit tree is easiest to grow?
The easiest fruit tree to grow for beginners is usually an apple tree, which has the benefit of being such a popular, versatile fruit. ‘If you are seeking a more low-maintenance fruit tree, look to the plum or peach trees, which require less care than other fruit trees,’ adds Smith.
Do you need 2 peach trees to produce fruit?
Most types of peach trees are self-fertile, so planting one tree is all that’s needed for fruit production.
Can you plant different fruit trees next to each other?
It’s important to grow fruit-tree varieties that taste great and are productive, but you also have to know a little about pollination. Most fruit trees grow best with at least two different varieties planted. The varieties should bloom at roughly the same time in spring and have pollen that’s compatible.
How far apart do fruit trees need to be planted?
Most standard-sized fruit trees need approximately 20 feet by 20 feet of space to grow properly, though standard-sized apple and sweet cherry trees need around 35 by 35 feet of space. Citrus trees only require about 8 feet to grow properly.
Can lemon trees grow in Alabama?
In most parts of Alabama, winter temperatures are simply too cold to allow gardeners to plant lemon trees in-ground in their gardens. In the warmest parts of the state, however, the most cold-hardy types of lemon may be able to survive the winter outside if given adequate protection.
Can avocados grow in Alabama?
Alabama ranges from USDA plant hardiness zones 7 to 8, which can be a little too cold for most kinds of avocados. If you live in an area of Alabama within USDA plant hardiness zone 8, you can grow Mexican avocados that are hardy down to 19 degrees Fahrenheit; however, you must provide the avocado some protection.
What is the most popular fruit in Alabama?
The peach is the most popular tree fruit grown in the state.
Can a mango tree grow in Alabama?
If you live in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10b through 11, you can grow mangoes. These trees are not very cold tolerant, and even a mild frost can cause serious damage to parts of the tree.
What can I plant now in Alabama?
Alabama Vegetable Garden Planting Chart Vegetable Days to Maturity Planting Dates, Fall Beets 55 – 65 August Broccoli 55 – 75 Aug. 1-15 Brussels Sprouts 90 – 120 Aug. 1 – Sept. 1 Cabbage 60 – 85 July 2 – Aug. 10.
When can I plant my apple tree outside?
Planting Time In cold northern climates, spring is the best time to plant apple trees. In areas where winter is less severe, early spring or late fall planting is recommended. Remove weeds and grass in a 4-foot circle and dig a hole about 2 feet deep and twice the diameter of the root ball of the tree.
How long does it take for an apple tree to bear fruit?
Dwarf apple trees will start bearing fruit 2 to 3 years after planting. Standard size trees can take up to 8 years to bear fruit. Some varieties are more susceptible to insect and disease damage than others. Prune annually to keep apple trees healthy and productive.
What month do you plant peach trees?
Plant in late winter or early spring. Plant a container-grown peach tree in early spring so it has the entire growing season to adjust to the environment before winter. Plant bare-root peach trees (dormant trees that are stored without soil on their roots) in late winter.
