Fruit Trees are increasingly popular, both as commercial crops and in the home garden. With varieties suitable for climates accross the continent along with new dwarf varieties suitable for smaller properties, or for growing in tubs or planters it is now easier than ever to grow fruit trees.

Prepare soil well before planting and consider installing in ground irrigation. Netting to prevent loss though birds is desirable with some varieties.

Some fruit trees need a pollinater, so talk to your nurseryman before purchasing.

Fruit trees can be espaliered along a wall or fence in areas where space is limited, or to obtain a formal effect.

You cant grow every fruit tree in every climate or every soil, some fruit trees are tropical some require a cool climate, so chose the type of fruit tree that suits your climat best. This will differ even with in species, for example the Bacon Avocado will do better in cool climates than some other varieties. However, if the situation and climate is a little marginal, then maybe give it a go. Look around the district and see what fruit trees others are growing, its a good indication of what will work.

Most fruit trees require lots of sun and a fertile well drained soil, of course exceptions exist. Olive trees seem to be able to cope with poor soils. Some fruit trees like a little shade. Read up on the varieties of fruit trees you intend to planr before you purchase.

Site selection is important, generally sunny well drained position in a humus rich soil. You need to dig a hole bigger than the root ball, and place in any supporting stakes. Make sure that you soak the root ball before you plant the tree. Plant, water in with a good liquid fertilizer and then secure the tree to supports.

Fruit trees require watering, fertilization and pruning. Overwatering can be an issue so moniter watering and soil moisture. Fertilization of fr uit trees is usually best done in Early Spring before the buds break. Use a fertilizer designed for the type of tree, or a general balanced fertilizer.
Fruit trees need to be pruned to maintain a healthy tree, promote fruiting and keep a managable size. Pruning is best done in Fall. An excellent article on fruit tree pruning is on the North Carolina University Web Site.