Gordon Johnson, Extension Vegetable & Fruit Specialist; gcjohn@udel.edu
Fall planting is a common practice in southern states: In these southern areas, when trees are planted in the fall, the roots grow through the winter, resulting in greater tree growth during the first season—which ultimately leads to faster vigorous growth. Delmarva is in the Northern range where fall planting is successful. Those fruits best adapted to fall planting are apples and pears. Stone fruits (peaches, plums, cherries) are best planted in the spring to avoid possible winter kill.
The following are some guidelines from Cornell University for Fall planning of apples:
Successful fall planting requires a combination of conditions: (1) a well-prepared site with good drainage, weeds under control and minimal rodent and deer populations, (2) mild weather and warm soil temperatures for several weeks after planting to encourage root establishment, (3) nursery trees that begin their dormancy process early, including leaf drop, (4) a nursery supplier that is willing to fall dig trees, (5) sufficient labor to plant trees quickly without drying, and (6) proper soil conditions to re-close the soil around the roots without leaving air pockets.
Planting holes of fall planted apples should be filled and tamped so that there are no air pockets. Do not attempt to plant in wet soils that cannot be properly back filled
The roots and soil need to be in intimate contact immediately after planting to ensure the trees survive. Where a tree planter is used, the presser wheels need to be adjusted properly. Hand planted trees should be tramped well around the trunk. A follow-up watering is recommended if a soaking rain does not occur within a few days.
If all these conditions are met, fall planting of apple trees can help your new orchard get off to a quick start next spring.