Preparing Soil for Fruit Trees: Compost Manure First, Plant in Fall

Fresh Chicken Manure Will Kill Young Fruit Trees

The nursery advice to fill planting holes with fresh manure is dangerous. Uncomposted manure burns roots. Always use bagged, labeled "composted" manure (cow, sheep) or compost your own for 6-12 months.

Correct Planting Protocol

1. Mix composted manure thoroughly into backfill soil.
2. Never place fresh manure directly under roots.
3. Plant in fall (dormant season) for best establishment – especially in Melbourne's climate.
4. Water deeply at planting and weekly thereafter.

Species-Specific Notes

• Citrus (lemon) – needs excellent drainage, slightly acidic soil.
• Avocado – sensitive to salt and poor drainage; mound planting helps.
• Apricot – requires winter chill; verify variety suits your zone.

Local Expertise

Consult Australian horticultural resources (your state's agriculture department) for variety selection and planting calendars specific to Oakleigh/Melbourne conditions.