Soil in Fruit Tree Orchards

Some of the most common questions we get asked are about soil. Folks want to know what trees will grow well in clay soil, how to amend their soil, how to test their soil, whether their soil is too wet to support a healthy tree.

There are just a few basic soil types: clay, sandy, silty, peaty, chalky, and loamy. Ideally we would all have loamy soil (moist, structured, well draining, nutrient rich, easy to cultivate) and we would never need to worry about drainage or nutrition. Unfortunately, many growers face immediate challenges because of poor soils or the potential of soil-born pathogens or toxins, and some soil situations are simply unsuitable for some plants. The one potential problem that takes many customers by surprise is Replant Disease. Please review this topic if your growing area has contained fruit trees within the last two years. 

The pages linked below address the most common soil questions that should be addressed before purchasing and planting trees. For more technical advice, you may wish to contact a local university extension. 

Clay Soil and Drainage

Black Walnut

Replant Disease