How to plant an apple tree

Now is the best time to plant a tree as the ground is still warm but the tree is dormant so won’t be disturbed.

1 Dig a square hole (which allows roots to spread further) that is as deep as the root ball, but two to three times the diameter.

2 Remove the tree from the pot, scratch at the roots to encourage outward growth and brush on mycorrhizal fungi.

3 Place in the centre of hole, backfill with soil and gently heel it in around the tree, pressing down with your feet.