Can I order trees online?

No, not at this time. We find that every tree is a custom order, and we like to get to know you and learn about your site and what you want. Besides the fun part is coming to the farm and selecting the tree yourself.

What are bareroot trees?

Bareroot trees are trees sold without any soil on the roots. They are small trees and less expensive than trees in rootmaker bags. We sell them in the early spring while they are still dormant. They need to be planted as soon as possible when you bring them home. Here is a current list of our availability for Spring 2011, or you may email us for a pdf of the list.

You have so many apples- how do I choose?

We’ve added an ‘apple chart’ to get you started. Let us know if it is helpful to you.

What is a good location for fruit trees?

The coolest location you have, that has good air flow. This will help to prevent trees from flowering too early and fruit set being destroyed by frost. You don’t want them in an area where the cold air pools and doesn’t move. Avoid south and west facing locations. Don’t plant too close to buildings, walls or rocky outcroppings that radiate heat if at all possible.

How far apart should I plant trees in an orchard?

In general fruit trees should be 15- 20 feet apart. Tart cherries are natural dwarves and can be planted on 10 foot centers. As a general rule pears and sweet cherries will be the tallest, followed by apples, then apricots, plums, peaches and tart cherries. Plant the tallest trees to the north so they don’t shade the shorter trees.

How many years until they produce fruit?

Most of our trees are already of fruit producing age. Apples and pears can flower and fruit on 3 to 5 year old wood. Peaches, plums, apricots and tart cherries will fruit on 2 year old wood. Some trees are biennial and produce more heavily every other year.

When is the best time to plant trees?

The best time to plant trees is usually in the spring or fall; whenever you have time to take care of them. They need to be planted correctly and carefully monitored to ensure they get the proper amount of water and feeding. If you are getting ready to leave for an extended vacation or business trip, its probably best to wait until you get back.

How much water do they need?

The best guide is your finger. Dig down into the soil a couple of inches. If its moist, you can probably wait a day or two to water again. A general rule is 10 gallons per week per caliper inch of trunk but that is totally dependent on the aspect of the site, soil conditions and weather conditions. Using mulch appropriately helps the soil to retain water too. And yes, it is possible to over water trees here in the arid Southwest.

Why are the leaves turning yellow – wilting – rolled up – brown – skeletonized?

Be a good steward of your trees and don’t wait until all the leaves are damaged before investigating the cause. Soil fertility, water quality and quantity, bacteria, viruses, insects, rodents and other animals can all impact the health of your trees. Learn to recognize the symptoms of insect damage and deficiencies.

Should I use fertilizer? What kind?

Use a fertilizer with a low nitrogen content, for example, 3-3-3 or 5-5-5. Fertilize once a month or so from April through July, and then once in mid-September.

Do I need two of the same tree for cross pollination?

Actually, you need two different varieties of apples – or apricots or cherries etc. for cross pollination. Bees travel several miles from their hives collecting nectar and pollen so if there are other fruit trees in a several mile radius of your trees, cross pollination should be taken care of. Of course, if you want to be sure, plant 2 different varieties. Some varieties are self fruitful, for example, tart cherries.

How do I plant a tree?

See our planting and tree care page or the ISA(International Society of Arboriculture) website.