Knowing when to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma is the first step to a successful harvest. Getting the timing right gives your trees the best start, helping them establish strong roots before facing our state’s tough summers and winters.
This guide covers the best seasons for planting, specific recommendations for popular trees, and simple steps to ensure your new tree thrives.
When to Plant Fruit Trees in Oklahoma
The ideal planting window for most fruit trees in Oklahoma is during dormancy, in late winter to early spring. This period is key because the tree is not actively growing leaves or fruit, so it can focus its energy on growing new roots.
Planting at this time allows the tree to settle in and establish itself before the heat and stress of summer arrive. Let’s break down the two primary planting seasons.
The Best Time: Late Winter to Early Spring
For most of Oklahoma, aim to plant between mid-February and mid-April. The ground is workable, and the threat of severe freezes is usually passing.
Here’s why this season works so well:
- Root Development: The tree can grow roots for several weeks before top growth begins.
- Moisture: Spring rains help provide natural irrigation, reducing how much you need to water.
- Acclimation: The tree has a full season to grow before its first Oklahoma winter.
The Fall Planting Option
Fall planting, from late September through October, can also be successful, especially for container-grown trees. The soil is still warm, which encourages root growth, and the cooler air reduces stress on the tree.
However, fall planting carries more risk in Oklahoma. If we have an early, severe winter, a young tree may not be hardy enough to survive. It’s generally considered a safer bet for experienced gardeners or with very hardy varieties like apples and pears.
Seasonal Considerations by Tree Type
Not all fruit trees have the same ideal schedule. Here’s a quick guide for common Oklahoma fruits.
Apple and Pear Trees
These are among the hardiest. You can plant them early in the spring window, as soon as the soil is no longer frozen. Fall planting is also a reasonable option for these trees if you provide winter protection like mulch.
Peach, Plum, and Nectarine Trees
These stone fruits are a bit more tender. It’s best to wait until the danger of a late spring frost has passed, typically from early March to April. Avoid fall planting for these, as a cold snap can damage them.
Cherry Trees
Both sweet and tart cherries do well planted in early spring. They need good drainage and benefit from being planted on a slight mound if your soil is heavy clay.
Fig and Persimmon Trees
These are more cold-sensitive. Wait until all frost danger is completely gone, usually in April. Planting them in a sheltered, south-facing location can provide extra winter protection in the years to come.
How to Plant Your Fruit Tree: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve chosen the right time, proper planting technique is crucial. Follow these steps for the best results.
- Choose the Right Spot: Select a location with at least 6-8 hours of full sun daily and excellent drainage. Avoid low spots where frost or water collects.
- Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole two to three times wider than the tree’s root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. The graft union (the bump near the base) should be 2-3 inches above the soil line after planting.
- Inspect and Loosen Roots: For container trees, gently loosen the roots around the outside. For bare-root trees, soak the roots in water for 1-2 hours before planting.
- Place the Tree: Set the tree in the hole on solid, undisturbed soil. Backfill with the native soil you removed, gently tamping it down to remove large air pockets. Do not add fertilizer to the planting hole.
- Water and Mulch: Water deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (like wood chips) in a wide circle around the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk.
- Stake if Necessary: Only stake the tree if it is in a very windy location. Use a loose tie and remove it after one growing season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with good timing, a few errors can set your tree back. Watch out for these pitfalls.
- Planting Too Deep: This is the number one cause of tree failure. Always keep the graft union above ground.
- Overwatering: While new trees need consistent moisture, soggy soil will rot the roots. Check soil moisture an inch down before watering.
- Using Too Much Fertilizer: Fertilizer can burn tender new roots. It’s better to wait until you see new growth, then use a balanced fertilizer sparingly.
- Ignoring Variety Selection: Always choose varieties specifically recommended for Oklahoma’s climate. Your local nursery is a great resource for this.
Aftercare for Your Newly Planted Tree
The first year is all about establishment. Your main jobs are watering and protection.
Water your tree deeply once a week during the first growing season, unless rainfall is abundant. A slow trickle from a hose for 20-30 minutes is better than a quick sprinkle. In the winter, water during prolonged dry spells to prevent the roots from drying out completely.
Protect the young trunk from sunscald and rodent damage with a commercial tree guard or a loose wrap. Remember to remove any tags or wires from the branches to prevent them from cutting into the growing wood.
FAQ: Planting Fruit Trees in Oklahoma
What is the best month to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma?
For most of the state, March is the ideal month. It offers the best balance of cool weather for root growth and diminishing frost risk.
Can I plant fruit trees in the summer?
It’s not recommended. The intense heat and drought stress make it very hard for a new tree to establish. Container trees can be planted in summer but require extremely diligent, daily watering and shade protection, which is often not succesful.
How late is too late to plant in the spring?
If you plant after May, the tree will struggle with immediate heat stress. It’s better to wait until the next dormant season than to plant a tree just before summer.
Do I need to plant two fruit trees?
It depends on the type. Most apple, pear, plum, and sweet cherry trees require a second, different variety for cross-pollination. Peaches, tart cherries, and figs are usually self-fruitful and can produce alone. Always check the tag for your specific variety’s needs.
What are the easiest fruit trees to grow for beginners?
In Oklahoma, fig trees, Asian persimmon trees, and certain hardy varieties of peach and plum trees are often recommended for their relative ease and good disease resistance.
By choosing the correct planting time for your specific fruit tree and following proper planting steps, you set the foundation for decades of healthy growth and plentiful harvests. Paying attention to your local weather patterns each year will help you fine-tune the perfect planting day in your own backyard.