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Planting Fruit Trees in clay soil #892308

Asked February 04, 2025, 6:43 PM EST

I just expanded my deer-fence area, currently used for my vineyard, and now have an additional strip of land approximately 12’ x 130’ that is now available for planting. I have been thinking it would be nice to add some fruit trees, maybe some nut trees too, but I’m a bit concerned because the soil is mostly clay. It has worked out fairly well for grape vines but would it work with fruit and nut trees? Would I have to dig a large hole and fill with compost and good soil in which to plant each tree? If so, how big would the hole have to be? Are there particular varieties that would do well in this situation? Thank you.

Benton County Oregon

Expert Response

Most fruit trees require deep well-drained soil. If you need to amend the soil it is best to do so at least 6 months prior to planting. For poorly drained soil, you can mix in cover crops, compost, or manure, or try to build some beds/mounds that can be planted into. If your soil puddles significantly, you may want to consider installing some tiles or French drains to improve drainage. I also recommend a soil test so that you can correct any nutrient deficiencies and amend the soil pH prior to planting if needed. Optimal soil pH for most fruit trees is 6.0-6.5.

There are some fruit trees that are more tolerant to poor drainage than others, and you can also select rootstocks that can tolerate poor drainage. Pears, apples, and plums are more tolerant to poorly drained soils than peaches or cherries, which are very sensitive and susceptible to root rots. Even then you need to make sure you select a rootstock that can handle poor drainage (for more on rootstocks, refer to: https://treefruit.wsu.edu/varieties-breeding/rootstocks/). Hazelnuts also need well-drained soils.

Once you have amended the soil and are ready to plant, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball, but not too deep. Do not backfill the hole with compost or other amendments, fill it back in with the soil you dug out of it. This ensures that the soil around the root ball has the same density as the soil the roots will encounter later, as they spread beyond the original planting hole. A marked difference in density between the planting hole and the surrounding area can limit root growth.

The following extension publications may be of value to you, they are free to view or download online:
If you have further questions, feel free to give me a call at<personal data hidden>.
Erica Chernoh Assistant Professor of Practice Community and Commercial Horticulture OSU Extension Lane County Replied February 07, 2025, 3:29 PM EST

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