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Is it safe to plant apple trees in late May in Portland? #869785

Asked May 23, 2024, 1:05 PM EDT

Is it safe to plant a Fuji and a honeycrisp apple tree in late May in Portland? If so, what special care will they need?

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your questions.  Fruit tree specialists recommend that young trees be planted early in the spring, which we've passed.  The closer we get to hot, dry weather, the greater the risk that the young trees' root systems will be unable to spread out to absorb adequate water and nutrients.  If the soil is workable, planting in the fall is safer.

Be aware that growing healthy, productive fruit trees requires close attention to insects, diseases and environmental factors.  Here is a great OSU Extension publication to help you decide on this project:  https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/ec-819-growing-tree-fruits-nuts-home-orchard

I hope this is helpful.  Good luck!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 23, 2024, 3:03 PM EDT

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