Summer solstice 2014, officially begins tomorrow, Saturday June 2014 It is presumed that everywhere but Phoenix, fruit trees will grow and fruit with utter exuberance, and all without human intervention. Nothing could be further from the truth, as everywhere has it challenges. The summer planting tips below was copied from none other than a South Florida nursery, where again many gardeners presume that all you have to do is plant something, walk away, and just come back to pick the fruit. As you read the tips below, take note of recommendations to shade, watering, mulching and adding organic matter and note that they are the same recommendations I continually stress for planting in Phoenix. Planting During Hot Weather, (reprinted from a S. Florida Nursery) 1. When purchasing a tree, follow planting instructions and never plant it right in direct sun, unless the tree has been kept in full sun at the nursery. Instead, keep it in the container and Move the pot gradually into brighter light, and eventually into the spot of its permanent home. 2. Use only quality soil, containing lots of organic matter (compost, peat moss); soil conditioner. Plant it on a little hill, so growing point is elevated 1-1.5 above the rest of the surface. 3. Put a good layer of mulch around the plant, at least 1-2 thick, 3-4 is better, and not too close to the trunk as it may cause stem rot. 4. Water daily with a garden hose until the plant shows active growth, 1-4 weeks- then watering may be reduced every other day or less, or you may rely on sprinklers and/or rains. Do not rely on your watering system till tree is to certain to have over come transplant stress. Do not let the rootball dry out this time of year. 5. If the sun is too hot, use shade cloth (or simply a white bed sheet) to cover the plant for the first few days (use bamboo sticks or similar for support so material does not touch the foliage). It will help the plant to establish without heat stress. If leaves start dropping - this may be a sign of excessive light and heat. Shading is the best way to reduce it. Remember that a plant has a very slow nature, unlike creatures from the animal world. Give it some time and never rush it into new conditions. Go slowly and patiently - this is the only way to get a reward of a fruit crop. tropicamango
Posted on: Sat, 21 Jun 2014 01:30:01 +0000