How to Plant a Bare-Root Fruit Tree

Steps

1. 1Soak the roots — Soak bare roots in water for 2 to 4 hours before planting.
2. 2Dig a wide hole — Make the hole about twice as wide as the root spread and just deep enough to keep the graft union above soil (roughly 24 inches wide by 12-15 inches deep).
3. 3Position the tree — Set the tree so the graft union is 3 to 4 inches above the final soil line; a small cone of soil at the bottom helps spread the roots.
4. 4Backfill and firm — Spread roots in all directions, backfill with the original soil, and firm with your foot while holding the tree upright.
5. 5Water in — Water immediately, and add more soil if it settles below the right level.

Common mistakes

⚠ Do not bury the graft union, and do not add topsoil, peat, manure, or nitrogen fertilizer to the planting hole; backfill with the native soil.

Sources

Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources — and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.

• University of Maryland Extension — Buying and planting fruit trees — Set the graft union 3-4 inches above the soil line; dig a hole about twice as wide as the roots and backfill with native soil.
• Penn State Extension — Spring fruit tree planting tips for the home garden — Soak roots before planting; keep the graft union above soil so the scion does not root and lose the dwarfing effect.
• Oregon State University Extension — Planting and caring for a fruit tree — Spread roots in the hole, firm and water in, and avoid fertilizer in the planting hole.

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