DIY: Plant a Fruit Tree That Blooms in the Spring

Let’s say you don’t have the world’s biggest garden. Why should a little thing like that stop you from having an apple orchard? Ever since we discovered the existence of multi-graft espaliered apple trees—which have several varieties of fruit growing on different branches—we’ve wanted one. And it’s an excellent solution for any gardener who doesn’t have acres to spare.

This fall, Michelle planted one in her front yard, using Miracle-Gro garden products. Want to try it yourself? See her DIY video for step-by-step instructions (you’ll need the materials outlined below).

Above: The tree grows four varieties of apples—Gala, Red Fuji, Golden Delicious, and Granny Smith—all of which will flower in the spring and set fruit on a separate branch.

Here’s What You Need:

• A multi-graft apple tree, such as the one we got from Yamagami’s Nursery in Northern California.

• An industrial-strength shovel to dig the hole, such as the Jackson Round Point Shovel with D Handle; $36.25 from Gempler’s.

• Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Fertilizer Spikes; place them at the drip lines after you plant the tree.

• Miracle-Gro Garden Soil for Trees and Shrubs; mix one part native soil to one part Scotts in the hole and make a mound on which to place the root ball.