How to care for your fruit trees in winter

1. The soil

It is important to remove weeds and lightly loosen up the soil to remove any larvae that may be nesting in the surface of the soil. It also helps to aerate the soil to discourage soil borne diseases and fungi. Do this gently so as not to disturb any surface roots. A layer of mulch at this stage will suppress weeds, add organic matter and support the microorganisms in the soil. 

2. Mulching

Applying a layer of mulch is important for retaining moisture in the soil over summer and helps to insulate the soil from the searing summer heat. Keep mulch away from the trunks to avoid encouraging fungal attack during wet weather. 

3. Orchard Hygiene

Clean up dropped and rotting fruit and any fallen leaves which may be harbouring disease. This reduces the chances of any leaf or fruit borne pests/diseases reinfecting the plant during the next growing season. It also removes the habitat for pests that like to over-winter in leaf litter. 

4. Fertilise

Compost, especially homemade, can be placed around your fruit trees to give them the best possible start for the spring. Late winter/early spring is the time to think about giving your fruit trees a feed. As a general fertiliser sprinkle down some blood and bone. Try to avoid applying a fertiliser that is very high in nitrogen, as this will encourage too much vegetative growth. Applying some sulphate of potash will encourage your tree to flower and fruit better.

Citrus trees will naturally look sad over winter with their leaves yellowing somewhat; this is normal and will correct itself when the weather warms up. An application of a seaweed solution can help your trees immensely; this improves their immune system making them more resistant to fungal disease, drought and frost and it also helps out the microorganism in the soil. 

5. Protecting Frost Sensitive Trees

Some trees such as citrus and avocados and young saplings need to be protected from frost. If you live in a frosty area you can keep your trees alive by covering them with shade cloth or Hessian to increase the thawing time, and placing a barrier around them to protect them from cold winds. Regular applications of seaweed spray will help with their resistance. 

6. Re-potting root bound shrubs

Any trees that are grown in pots can be inspected to see if their roots are too restricted or have gone through the bottom of the pot. If necessary re-pot into a slightly larger pot with a good quality potting mix.