When is the best time to transplant an apricot tree? Both spring and autumn work, but autumn is best
AbstractApricot trees can be transplanted after the first frost in autumn, because the temperature is higher at this time, which suits root development and gives a high survival rate. Apricot trees can also be transplanted in spring, but they must not be transplanted when the ground is frozen, as this will affect the growth of the apricot tree. The transplanting time also varies with the size of the apricot tree; larger apricot trees are generally best transplanted in early spring.
Apricot trees are transplanted with a soil ball in early spring, usually around late March to early April each year. Apricot trees can also be transplanted after the first frost in autumn; the temperature is higher at this time, which is more favorable for the repair of apricot tree roots and gives an even higher survival rate.
Points to note when transplanting
1. Transplanting apricot trees before they sprout in spring can greatly increase their survival rate.
2. Before transplanting an apricot tree, dig the tree hole in advance and apply plenty of organic fertilizer; if the tree hole is small, no fertilizer is needed.
3. Before transplanting, prune the apricot tree appropriately and keep a suitable root-to-crown ratio to effectively increase its survival rate.
4. When digging out the tree, be careful not to break the roots, and keep as much of the apricot tree's root system as possible.
5. Once the apricot tree is planted, water it immediately; the first watering should be thorough, and water again one week later.
6. If it is a larger apricot tree, set up a support for it after transplanting to prevent it from leaning or falling over.
Points to note after transplanting
1. After transplanting is completed, first water thoroughly once, then apply well-rotted organic fertilizer, dig the planting trench, form the ridges, and then plant the apricot saplings on the ridges, with the plant and row spacing controlled at about 0.9×2 m.
2. When the new shoots grow to about 15 cm, apply quick-acting fertilizer; alternate between soil topdressing and foliar spraying. At the end of September, begin applying organic fertilizer and compound fertilizer. Apply urea before the apricot tree sprouts. From after the apricot tree flowers fade to the fruit-swelling stage, topdress with potassium sulfate compound fertilizer; 2 weeks later, spray urea and potassium dihydrogen phosphate, and at the same time spray 500 times yield-increasing bacteria to increase the apricot tree's fruit yield.
3. Watering must be thorough each time; afterward, determine the amount and timing of watering according to the actual situation (the size of the apricot tree, etc.).
Points to note when pruning
1. Pruning an apricot tree is mainly to adjust the tree's vigor and extend the number of years it remains in the fruiting stage.
2. When pruning an apricot tree, be sure to maintain the framework well, manage the distribution of fruiting mother branches, and control and adjust branch age. Adjust the tree's growth according to the subordinate relationships of the branches. Apricot trees live a long time and do not branch much naturally; it generally takes about 7-8 years to complete the tree form of an apricot tree.
3. When pruning an apricot tree, if a wound is accidentally made, be sure to seal it promptly. If it is not sealed in time, the apricot tree may become infected, and then the wound will be difficult to heal, leading to cracking, frost damage and other problems that hinder wound healing. However, as long as it is treated promptly, there is generally no major impact, and no other problems will arise later.