Fruit trees provide food for humans and animals.
When we were looking for a tree nursery, the first place we looked Google. The goal was to find fruit trees suitable for planting at deer camp. Obviously, we want to see deer and this was one chosen option for providing a more attractive habitat.
Although camp is in managed forest crop land, planting different trees provides diversity and fruit trees can produce fruit suitable for human consumption as well. One of the considerations is to ensure the trees you plant are suitable for the climate.
We were fortunate to find Grandview Orchards just east of Antigo, Wisconsin. After communicating via E-mail, we obtained two apple trees: one McIntosh and one Red Regent. They were compatible varieties and we relied on the advice of owner Lisa Rettinger on spacing for planting. The trees were easily transported to camp.
After site selection and preparation, the trees were successfully planted and watered. We also planted some young white pine trees to begin creating diversity in our section of the forest.
Here are suggestions for finding the tree nursery you’re looking for:
- Consider the use or purpose you want for the trees;
- Consider the terrain and climate conditions where they’ll be planted;
- Search for nurseries near the area or ask people who live near there;
- Ask questions about the nursery’s recommendations and share your ideas; and,
- Be willing to pay for quality that achieves your intended purpose.
Keep in mind you might have to lug water to the location, as we did. We loaded two gallons of plain water in a backpack and lugged those to the site carrying shovel and weed whacker. The time of year for planting certain varieties of trees is also important to consider.
Once the site was prepared using measurements from the soil package around the tree, we went back to carry the tree to the location. We had chosen the site and pre-positioned the tree as close as possible to save labor. Some water went in the prepared hole, with the rest being used to water after planting the tree. All that was left to carry out was tools and backpack with empty water bottles.
Save Earth. Plant more trees, wherever you can.