Do you dream about creating your own family orchard, but do not know where to start? If so, then this article is for you. Let us explore together key factors that come into play when it comes to bringing this dream into reality.
What Are the Benefits of Creating an Orchard?
There are multiple reasons for creating a family orchard. First, who wouldn’t like to provide their family with organic vegetables and fruits that are healthy? Hardly anyone, right?
Second, family apple picking can be a very enjoyable outdoor family experience during the summer.
Third, growing your own pears, apples or peaches might help you contribute to sustainability by buying less and less produce from grocery stores. Besides, people sometimes purchase and start family orchards in order to grow and sell fruits. In some cases, the business of producing and selling apples can be an exciting undertaking.
All in all, before you invest effort, time and resources in your own family orchard, get clear about your WHY. This will help you make the right decisions later on.
When Is the Time to Plan Your Home Orchard Layout?
Once you know why you want to create a family orchard, think about the right timing. A lot of fruit trees growers choose to plant in the spring. If you choose to follow their example, make sure you do all the preparatory work before the onset of spring.
Does It Matter How Much Space You Have Available?
Yes and No. On the one hand, there is no fixed minimum for how many fruit trees constitute a family orchard. On the other hand, you definitely need to take into consideration what space you have available. This is necessary so that you choose whether you will plant dwarf, semi-dwarf or full-sized trees.
You might find it helpful to start with an orchard layout drawing. This can be useful because people oftentimes underestimate the space that a full-grown sapling will need in the future. Experts in the field recommend that you leave 18 feet between (semi-)dwarf trees and 30 feet between full-sized trees.
While it is important to think creatively, do not forget to consider weather conditions. Choose an area where there is full sun, as well as good drainage.
Which Variety of Fruit Tree Should You Grow?
Depending on what you hope to get from your trees, you can choose from different varieties. A lot of parents like kid-friendly apple orchards. Cherries, peaches and plums can also be great options for fresh eating, canning and cooking.
Naturally enough, look for trees that are well suited for your conditions and that you can take proper care of. After all, organic growth requires building healthy soil and this is not an automatic process.
To sum up, creating a family orchard requires effort, dedication and resources. Yet, even if do not have a lot of space available, you can still find a small orchard layout design and bring your idea to life.
