Apple Trees – How Big To Make The Hole

Q: I am getting ready to plant a few full-sized apple trees. How deep and how wide should I prepare the spot? 

A: Apples are a great choice for long-term fruit! But to ensure long life, your goal should be to establish a strong root system initially. The planting hole should be as deep as the root ball. You do not have to dig a “hole” around the rootball but you do need to loosen the soil thoroughly as widely as you possibly can. This gives the apple roots plenty of room to grow outwards quickly. Before you set the plant in place make sure you don’t have roots or rope circling the trunk. If so, they must be removed. No fertilizer or soil amendment needs to be added to the loosened area.