... Read moreOkay, so you saw my initial post about the incredible fruit tree haul at Menards, right? Well, I just had to share more because I'm genuinely blown away by the value and selection! Finding these beauties for just $32.99 each is a game-changer for anyone dreaming of a backyard orchard. I mean, fresh, homegrown fruit? Yes, please!
For those of you who are like me and are new to fruit tree planting or just looking to expand your existing collection, I wanted to share a few tips based on my excitement and research. First off, when you head to Menards, you'll be amazed by the variety. I spotted so many fantastic options, perfect for different tastes and climates. For example, I saw tags for the incredibly popular Apple Honeycrisp™, which is a personal favorite for its sweet-tart flavor. They also had the classic Peach Contender, known for its delicious, freestone fruit, and the juicy Nectarine June Princess.
But it doesn't stop there! For those looking for something a bit unique, they had Plumcot Spring Satin, a fantastic hybrid that offers the best of both plums and apricots. And for fig lovers, the Ficus Olympian caught my eye – the tag mentioned its soft-skinned, sweet fruit, and impressive cold hardiness, plus it needs at least 6+ hours of direct sun to thrive. I also noticed a Prunus Hybrid Plum Au Rosa with its striking red skin and sweet yellow flesh, and the Pyrus Communis Pear Ayers, described as having large, greenish-yellow fruit with crisp, white flesh. It's truly a treasure trove for fruit enthusiasts!
Before you grab ten like I did (oops!), it’s a good idea to think about what will grow best in your area. Check your USDA hardiness zone first. Most of these trees will have that information right on the tag. Also, consider the mature size of the tree and how much sun your chosen planting spot gets. As the Ficus Olympian tag noted, sunlight is crucial!
When it comes to planting, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds. Dig a hole that’s twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Make sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill with good quality soil, give it a good watering, and maybe add some mulch around the base to help retain moisture. The first year is all about getting those roots established, so consistent watering is key, especially during dry spells.
I'm so excited to watch these trees grow and eventually enjoy fresh fruit right from my backyard. It's such a rewarding experience, and with Menards offering such high-quality trees at an unbeatable price of just $32.99, it feels like a dream come true. Don't wait too long if you're thinking about starting your own orchard – these deals are too good to last! Happy planting, everyone!