We only think about planting trees when the first rain falls at the end of summer. I plan to fill the empty space around the house with trees, including the balcony and the roof. Many people have similar thoughts but not all put them into action. I visit public or private nurseries to find seedlings or cuttings of my favorite trees. I can also put them in the specified place for immediate planting. I initially think that the place will be filled with green in a few days, but the reality doesn’t match the thought. After a few days, it becomes clear that the seedlings or cuttings are not growing properly; they wither and die. This problem can be eliminated by paying attention to some specific things when planting trees.
It is not advisable to plant seedlings or cuttings only after the first rains at the end of summer. We have to wait for the next two or three rains. Because after the first rain, the gas created in the soil needs to be given time to come out or for some juice to accumulate in the soil. Therefore, if it rains several times, the weather inside and outside the soil is almost at the same level. That is, soil moisture and air humidity increase. If you plant seedlings or cuttings in this state, they will not die. As resistance is removed, seedlings grow faster.
Remember these points for producing quality fruit trees:
It is currently raining in many parts of the country, and although the temperature is high, the air humidity has increased significantly. This is the ideal time to plant seedlings or cuttings of any fruit or woody plant. Here are some important steps to follow:
- Select high-quality seedlings or grafts.
- Choose an appropriate planting site.
- Dig holes according to the specific requirements of the seedling or graft variety.
- Use fertilizers properly in the pits.
- Plant the saplings or cuttings correctly in the pits.
- Protect the newly planted trees.
Selection of seedlings or cuttings:
When selecting seedlings or cuttings for planting, it’s important to choose ones that are no more than one or two years old. Smaller, healthy seedlings or cuttings are better suited for adapting to the environment and growing quickly. When selecting, avoid seedlings or cuttings with new leaves, flowers, or fruits. Choose straight, healthy seedlings or cuttings and avoid those that are too branchy. Before planting, trim half of the lower leaves to prevent water loss and ensure the tree doesn’t dry out. Check for any cracks in the stem and avoid selecting diseased seedlings or cuttings. It’s best to collect and plant better variety seedlings or cuttings from reliable sources. Check the roots to ensure they haven’t penetrated the pot or polybag, and make sure the soil is of good quality. If the soil becomes loose or the soil ball breaks, it’s better to discard that seedling or cutting.
Fixing the planting site:
The location for planting saplings or cuttings should be chosen in advance. Select a spot that receives sunlight and does not impede future growth.
Making holes properly according to seedling or graft variety:
Before planting saplings or cuttings, it is important to dig the proper size hole based on the type of seedling or graft variety. For large trees such as mango, jackfruit, litchi, coconut, lemon, and safeda, a hole of 1 square meter in length, width, and depth should be dug and left open for at least 7-10 days. For medium trees like guava, lemon, olive, kamaranga, and amra, a hole of 60 square centimeters in length, width, and depth is recommended. For small plants such as banana, papaya, and pomegranate, a hole of 45 square centimeters in length, width, and depth should be dug.
Proper use of fertilizers in pits:
When digging the planting hole, mix the soil with organic manure and let it sit for 7-10 days. Chemical fertilizers should be added to the soil mixed with organic fertilizers just 3-4 days before planting.
Proper planting of saplings or cuttings in pits:
When planting saplings or cuttings, it’s important to prepare the pit properly. Fill the pit with manured soil so that it is 15-20 cm above the ground level, and slope the filled soil on all sides for easy water flow. Water the soil as needed to prevent it from drying out. Then, make a hole in the middle of the pit equal to or slightly larger than the pot or polybag. Plant the seedlings or cuttings in the hole, ensuring that the root remains in its original position. After planting, sprinkle some water on the plant and around its base.
Protection of newly planted trees:
Newly planted saplings or cuttings should be staked and fenced with cages or barriers to protect them.
