- Site selection is a crucial and often overlooked component. Consider available space and available sunlight. Is there is anything that will interfere with tree planting and growth? This might include buildings, other trees, power lines, and other utilities, such as cable, internet, phone, gas, water, and sewer. Before digging, call North Carolina 811, which will contact the relevant companies to mark infrastructure that could be damaged (or cause you dam-age) during digging.
- Sunlight is critical for fruit production, and fruit trees require a minimum of 6 hours of direct sun per day. So ensure that neither other trees nor structures are casting shade on the proposed growing area.
- Always reference your soil sample report to identify what, if any, lime needs to be added to the soil. A soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is optimum for fruit tree growth. If you have questions about soil sampling, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent.
—Bryan Hartman
