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Step 1
Select a species of fruit tree that is suited to your area. Consult with a local nursery--they will know what type of fruit tree will thrive in your soil conditions. Check if it will be necessary for you to purchase two or more trees to ensure pollination.
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Step 2
Select a healthy fruit tree from the nursery. The tree should have a strong and straight stem, a clearly defined central branch, and be well-balanced. It should have several feet of stem and no low branches. The root ball should show no signs of damage.
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Step 3
Dig a hole at least 18 inches deep and about twice as wide as the root ball. Add a layer of compost to the bottom of the hole. Till the soil on the bottom and sides of the hole in order to loosen it.
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Step 4
Put a small amount of soil back into the hole, then place the tree in it. Make sure that the graft line of the tree is at least 3 or 4 inches above the soil line. Loosen the roots in the root ball and spread them evenly.
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Step 5
Add more soil to fill the hole and compact it lightly so the tree is standing straight. Support the tree by driving a stake in the ground and tying the tree to the stake with a soft cloth.
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Step 6
Add a layer of mulch. Leave a 6-inch ring around the trunk without mulch so that the graft line and trunk are not in contact with it.
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Step 7
Water the tree deeply in the absence of rain. Refer to the recommendations for the particular tree you have for watering specifics, as well as fertilization guidelines. Most trees do well with a well-balanced fertilizer applied in the spring.
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Step 8
Thin some of the fruit from the tree while it is still small to spur the remaining fruit to grow larger and more flavorful.
