Autumn planting of an apple tree is a responsible process on which the future of the tree depends.
A properly prepared hole serves as a foundation for healthy growth and abundant fruiting.
An expert of the online publication "BelNovosti", agronomist and landscape designer Anastasia Kovrizhnykh emphasizes: the secret of success lies in a carefully selected mixture of fertilizers and nutrients.
Size and shape of the planting hole
Before you start filling the hole, you should pay attention to its size and shape.
The optimal parameters for planting an apple tree in autumn are 80-100 cm in diameter and 60-70 cm in depth. A round or square hole shape ensures uniform distribution of the root system.
Drainage as the basis for healthy roots
The first layer in the pit should provide good drainage. To do this, put broken brick, gravel or coarse sand on the bottom in a layer of 10-15 cm.
Such a cushion will prevent water stagnation and provide the roots with the necessary access to oxygen.
Main components of the nutrient mixture
The fertile soil layer is mixed with organic and mineral fertilizers. The mixture usually includes:
• Humus or compost (2-3 buckets);
• Peat (1-2 buckets);
• Wood ash (0.5-1 kg);
• Superphosphate (200-300 g); Potassium fertilizers (100-150 g).
Proportions may vary depending on the original composition of the soil on the site.
Features of fertilization
It is important to remember that fresh manure is not suitable for an apple tree planting hole. It can cause root burn and slow down the growth of the seedling.
Instead, use rotted manure or high-quality compost.
Liming of acidic soils
If the soil is highly acidic, add lime or dolomite flour to the hole (200-300 g per hole).
Apple trees prefer slightly acidic or neutral soils, so pH correction is of great importance for their development.
Microelements for complete nutrition
To enrich the soil with microelements, you can add special complex fertilizers or preparations containing boron, manganese and zinc to the mixture.
These elements promote better absorption of essential nutrients.
Natural additives to improve soil structure
Sand or fine expanded clay (1-2 buckets) improves the structure of heavy clay soils, providing better aeration.
On the contrary, in light sandy soils, clay is added to retain moisture and nutrients.
Biological growth activators
Modern gardeners often use biological preparations containing beneficial microorganisms.
These products improve the survival rate of seedlings and stimulate the development of the root system.
Layer-by-layer filling of the pit
The nutrient mixture is added to the hole in layers, alternating with clean soil.
This approach ensures an even distribution of fertilizers and prevents their excessive concentration around the roots.
The final stage of preparation
The top layer of the hole (15-20 cm) is filled with fertile soil without fertilizers.
This allows the seedling to adapt gradually and stimulates the growth of roots deep into the soil, towards nutrients.
Watering and mulching
After planting, the apple tree is watered generously and the trunk circle is mulched. Peat, sawdust or straw are used as mulch.
This layer retains moisture and protects the roots from freezing during the first winter.
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh
