When to Plant Fruit Trees in Oklahoma for a Sweet Harvest

When To Plant Fruit Trees In Oklahoma?

Oklahoma is a state with a diverse climate, ranging from the humid subtropical climate of the southeast to the semi-arid climate of the west. This means that there are a variety of different fruit trees that can be grown in the state, but the best time to plant them will vary depending on your location.

In this article, we will discuss the best time to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma, as well as some tips on how to choose the right trees for your climate. We will also provide a planting schedule for each region of the state.

So whether you are a new gardener or you are just looking to add some fruit trees to your existing landscape, read on for all the information you need to know about when to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma!

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Fruit Tree	Best Planting Time	Notes
Apple	Fall	Plant bare-root apple trees in fall, after the leaves have fallen.
Peach	Early spring	Plant peach trees in early spring, before the leaves have started to grow.
Cherry	Early spring	Plant cherry trees in early spring, before the leaves have started to grow.
Pear	Early spring	Plant pear trees in early spring, before the leaves have started to grow.
Apricot	Early spring	Plant apricot trees in early spring, before the leaves have started to grow.

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Fruit trees are a great way to add beauty and productivity to your Oklahoma landscape. They can provide you with delicious, fresh fruit to enjoy all season long, and they can also help to improve the value of your property. However, before you can start reaping the benefits of fruit trees, you need to make sure that you plant them in the right place and at the right time.

This guide will provide you with all of the information you need to know about planting fruit trees in Oklahoma. We will discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing a location for your trees, the best time of year to plant, and how to care for your trees after they are planted.

Factors to Consider When Planting Fruit Trees in Oklahoma

When choosing a location for your fruit trees, there are a few factors you need to take into consideration. These factors include:

• Climate
• Soil conditions
• Hardiness zone
• Varieties of fruit trees
• Time of year to plant

Climate

The first thing you need to consider when choosing a location for your fruit trees is the climate. Oklahoma has a humid subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. This climate is ideal for growing a wide variety of fruit trees, including apples, peaches, pears, plums, and cherries. However, it is important to choose varieties of fruit trees that are adapted to your specific climate. For example, if you live in an area with hot summers, you will want to choose varieties of fruit trees that are heat tolerant.

Soil conditions

The next thing you need to consider when choosing a location for your fruit trees is the soil conditions. Fruit trees do best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0. If you are not sure about the soil conditions in your area, you can have a soil test done to determine the pH and nutrient levels.

Hardiness zone

The hardiness zone is a climate classification system that is used to determine which plants can be successfully grown in a particular area. Oklahoma is located in hardiness zones 6a through 8b. This means that the average annual minimum temperature in Oklahoma ranges from -10 degrees Fahrenheit to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. When choosing a variety of fruit tree, it is important to choose a variety that is hardy to the lowest temperature in your area.

Varieties of fruit trees

There are a wide variety of fruit trees that can be grown in Oklahoma. Some of the most popular varieties include:

• Apples: ‘Red Delicious’, ‘Granny Smith’, ‘Gala’, ‘Fuji’
• Peaches: ‘Redhaven’, ‘Contender’, ‘Bonanza’
• Pears: ‘Bartlett’, ‘Bosc’, ‘Anjou’
• Plums: ‘Santa Rosa’, ‘Crimson Beauty’, ‘Italian Prune’
• Cherries: ‘Rainier’, ‘Lambert’, ‘Bing’

When choosing a variety of fruit tree, it is important to consider the size of the tree, the flavor of the fruit, and the resistance to pests and diseases.

Time of year to plant

The best time to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma is in the spring, after the last frost date. This gives the trees time to establish roots before the hot summer weather arrives. However, you can also plant fruit trees in the fall, as long as you water them regularly during the winter months.

Choosing the Right Location for Your Fruit Trees

Once you have considered the factors listed above, you can start choosing a location for your fruit trees. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Site exposure: Fruit trees need full sun to produce fruit. However, if you live in an area with hot summers, you may want to choose a location that provides some afternoon shade.
• Slope of the land: Fruit trees do best on level ground. However, if you have to plant your trees on a slope, make sure that the slope is facing south or southeast. This will help to protect the trees from cold winter winds.
• Drainage: Fruit trees need well-drained soil. If your soil is poorly drained, you will need to create a raised bed for your trees.
• Water availability: Fruit trees need regular water, especially during the summer months. Make sure that your trees are located near a water source, such as a hose or sprinkler.

By following these tips, you can successfully plant fruit trees in Oklahoma and enjoy fresh, delicious fruit for years to come.

Additional Resources

• [Oklahoma State

When To Plant Fruit Trees In Oklahoma?

The best time to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma is in the spring, when the weather is warm and the ground is thawed. However, you can also plant fruit trees in the fall, as long as you do so before the ground freezes.

When planting fruit trees in Oklahoma, it is important to choose a variety that is adapted to the climate. Some varieties of fruit trees are more tolerant of heat and drought than others. It is also important to choose a variety that is resistant to pests and diseases.

Here are some tips for planting fruit trees in Oklahoma:

• Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
• Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball.
• Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down firmly.
• Water the tree thoroughly.
• Mulch the tree to help retain moisture and protect the roots from the sun.

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Preparing the Soil for Planting

The soil in Oklahoma is typically sandy and alkaline. This can be a challenge for growing fruit trees, as most fruit trees prefer acidic soil. To improve the soil pH, you can add organic matter, such as compost or manure, to the soil. You can also add sulfur to the soil to lower the pH.

In addition to pH, it is also important to make sure that the soil is well-drained. Fruit trees do not tolerate wet feet, so it is important to make sure that the soil drains well. If the soil is too wet, you can add sand or gravel to improve drainage.

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Planting Your Fruit Trees

When planting fruit trees, it is important to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball. The hole should be filled with soil that has been amended with organic matter and sulfur.

The tree should be planted so that the graft union is 2-3 inches above the soil level. This will help to protect the tree from frost damage.

After planting the tree, it is important to water it thoroughly. You should water the tree every day for the first week, then every other day for the second week, and then once a week after that.

It is also important to mulch the tree to help retain moisture and protect the roots from the sun.

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Depth of Planting

The depth of planting is important for fruit trees, as it can affect the tree’s growth and development. If the tree is planted too deep, it can cause the roots to rot. If the tree is planted too shallow, it can cause the tree to dry out.

The general rule of thumb is to plant the tree so that the graft union is 2-3 inches above the soil level. This will help to protect the tree from frost damage.

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Distance Between Trees

The distance between trees is important for fruit trees, as it can affect the tree’s growth and productivity. If the trees are planted too close together, they can compete for resources, such as water and sunlight. This can lead to stunted growth and reduced yields.

If the trees are planted too far apart, they can be more susceptible to wind damage and pests.

The general rule of thumb is to plant trees 10-12 feet apart. However, this distance may need to be adjusted depending on the size of the tree and the climate.

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Mulching

Mulching is an important part of caring for fruit trees, as it can help to retain moisture, protect the roots from the sun, and suppress weeds.

The best type of mulch for fruit trees is a organic material, such as compost or shredded bark. The mulch should be applied to the soil around the tree in a 3-4 inch layer.

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Watering

Watering is another important part of caring for fruit trees, as it can help to ensure that the trees get the water they need to grow and produce fruit.

Fruit trees need to be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. The trees should be watered deeply, so that the water reaches the roots.

It is important to avoid overwatering fruit trees, as this can lead to root rot.

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Planting fruit trees in Oklahoma can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your trees grow healthy and produce delicious fruit.

Here are some additional tips for planting fruit trees in Oklahoma:

• Choose a variety that is adapted to the climate.
• Plant

  When is the best time to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma?

The best time to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma is in the early spring, from March to April. This gives the trees time to establish roots before the hot summer weather arrives.

What types of fruit trees can I grow in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma has a wide range of climate conditions, so there are many different types of fruit trees that can be grown successfully. Some of the most popular fruit trees for Oklahoma include apples, peaches, pears, plums, and cherries.

How much space do I need to plant a fruit tree?

Fruit trees need plenty of space to grow, so it is important to choose a planting site that is at least 10 feet wide and 10 feet deep. The tree should also have plenty of sunlight, as most fruit trees need at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

What kind of soil do I need for a fruit tree?

Fruit trees do best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. If you are not sure what type of soil you have, you can have it tested by a local soil testing lab.

How much water do fruit trees need?

Fruit trees need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Water the tree deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.

How do I prune a fruit tree?

Pruning is an important part of fruit tree care, as it helps to keep the tree healthy and productive. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring, before the new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also thin out the tree to improve air circulation and light penetration.

How do I protect my fruit trees from pests and diseases?

There are a number of pests and diseases that can affect fruit trees. Some of the most common pests include aphids, scale insects, and borers. Some of the most common diseases include apple scab, peach leaf curl, and powdery mildew. You can protect your trees from pests and diseases by spraying them with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, and by pruning the trees to remove any diseased branches.

When will my fruit trees start producing fruit?

Young fruit trees will not produce fruit for a few years. The exact number of years depends on the type of tree. Apple trees typically start producing fruit in 3 to 5 years, while peach trees typically start producing fruit in 2 to 3 years.

How do I harvest fruit from my trees?

Fruit is typically harvested when it is ripe. The best way to tell if a fruit is ripe is to look at the color and feel the texture. Ripe fruit will be soft and juicy, and it will have a sweet flavor.

When to plant fruit trees in Oklahoma can be a tricky question, as the state has a wide range of climates. However, by following a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that your trees will thrive and produce delicious fruit for years to come.

First, consider the hardiness zone of your area. This will tell you the minimum temperature that your trees can tolerate. Once you know your hardiness zone, you can choose trees that are adapted to the climate.

Next, think about when you want to harvest your fruit. If you want to enjoy fresh fruit early in the season, you will need to plant early-season varieties. If you are willing to wait a little longer, you can plant late-season varieties that will produce fruit later in the year.

Finally, consider the amount of space you have available. Fruit trees can take up a lot of space, so make sure you have enough room for the mature size of the tree.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully plant fruit trees in Oklahoma and enjoy delicious homegrown fruit for years to come.

Here are some key takeaways to remember when planting fruit trees in Oklahoma:

• Choose trees that are adapted to your hardiness zone.
• Consider when you want to harvest your fruit and choose varieties accordingly.
• Make sure you have enough space for the mature size of the tree.
• Plant your trees in the early spring or fall.
• Water your trees regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilize your trees according to the directions on the fertilizer label.
• Prune your trees as needed to maintain a healthy shape and to encourage fruit production.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow fruit trees in Oklahoma and enjoy delicious homegrown fruit for years to come.