Columnar Trees: What to Consider Before Planting

Trees

Columnar trees are garden plants with an unusual shape. They lack lateral branches, giving them a strange appearance. Their height and slenderness evoke admiration even among seasoned gardeners. They were developed at the Institute of Horticulture in the 1970s. These trees impress not only with their extraordinary beauty but also with the excellent taste of their fruit.

Peculiarities

Columnar garden plants are a skillful addition to any garden. Their trunks are slender and graceful, and their branches are delicate, fluffy, and airy.

Please note!

Despite their small thickness, the branches are capable of supporting a significant volume of apples, pears and other fruits.

In general, seedlings are known for their excellent yields. A single tree can sometimes yield over a ton of juicy fruit in a single season. They begin bearing fruit within a year of planting. While it's possible to purchase a tree that's already bearing fruit, there's a slight chance it won't thrive in its new environment.

Planting recommendations

Plants can be planted quite close together. Their compact, not very lush crowns prevent them from crowding or blocking each other from the sun. Apple or pear trees planted close together look more aesthetically pleasing. Landscape designers suggest planting them directly along garden paths.

To ensure the first harvest is as early as possible, the tree should be planted outdoors in early spring, as soon as the snow melts. This early planting is beneficial for the root system, preventing damage and allowing it to adapt to the environmental conditions. Sometimes seedlings are planted in the fall. The plant's adaptation time should be taken into account.

Please note!

Typically, 30 days is enough for a tree. This period should pass before the first frost, so that the tree won't die next year and will bear tasty and juicy fruit.

Pay special attention to preparing the pit. It's best to start in the fall:

The depth of the pit is about 1 meter.
The width should also be large enough – about 50-70 cm.

This volume is created for the convenience of the roots. As they grow, they often damage each other, disrupting the plant's nutrition. A deep hole prevents damage to the root system.

Just before landing:

Trim off dried and damaged roots, but no more than 3 cm.
The soil at the planting site should be thoroughly watered, but the seedling should not float.
When deciding to plant several trees, it is recommended to maintain a distance of at least one meter between them.
The most important aspect of caring for scaly-shaped trees before planting is caring for the root system. Any damage to the roots will prevent the garden tree from taking root. Therefore, root treatment should only be performed if the roots are completely dry and lifeless.

Fertilizer

Apply all fertilizers immediately before planting. Depending on the tree type, the following are best:

Phosphorus;
Potassium;
Natural.

Columnar seedlings require approximately 10 times less fertilizer than other types. On average, 2 tablespoons per tree are needed. Depending on the vitamin and mineral content of the soil, peat or ash can be used as additional fertilizer. Before planting, place the roots in a container with water and growth stimulant.