- Planting instructions will be supplied with each order.
- Fencing or tree shelters should be placed around seedlings to avoid damage from rabbits or lawnmowers.
- If planting in dense deer cover, expect mortality due to deer browsing on seedlings.
- Seedlings should be planted as soon as possible after delivery.
- The roots must be kept moist until planting, store in a cool location out of direct sunlight.
- When planting seedlings, dig a hole that is large enough that roots are not bent into a "J" shape. The most common cause for failure is restricting plant roots.
- A layer of organic mulch will reduce water needs and increase survivability.
- Seedlings should be watered once every two weeks the first year. More frequently during hot dry periods.
- One good watering is better than several smaller waterings.
- For best results, allow a five foot radius between seedlings.
- All seedlings grow slowly for 2-5 years after transplanting and more rapidly thereafter.
- Pruning is not recommended for conifers during the first three years.
- Windbreaks should be planted in staggered rows. In row spacing 6-10 feet apart with rows 10 feet apart except as noted.
- Spruce make the best windbreaks.
- Evergreen and decidous seedlings require very little, if any, fertilizer the first year. Use a fertilizer tablet at planting if desired.
- Fruit trees can be fertilized after ground has settled.
- Plant trees at least 12 feet from the curb, sidewalk or paved surface, eventually roots can crack or raise sidewalks, etc.
- Avoid planting trees over or within 20 feet of any sewer line or septic system; roots can block these lines causing expensive repairs.
- In quantities of 500 evergreen seedlings, each bundle contains 25 seedlings.
- Apples are not self-pollinating - at least 2 varieties should be planted for fruit production.
- Pluots are not self-pollinating - plant with or near another pluot variety or Japanese Plum variety.
- Space semi-dwarf apples 12- 15 feet apart. Peaches should be spaced 15 - 20 feet apart. Pluots and Cherries should be spaced 20 feet apart.
- The Small Scale Fruit Production manual is a good source of information for home fruit planting. It is available through the Penn State Cooperative Extension Service or online at http://ssfruit.cas.psu.edu
- High mortality is not uncommon, the nursery industry standard is to not guarantee survival of bareroot seedlings nor will the Dauphin County Conservation District.
Seedling Sale - Planting Guidelines
