Frost protection

[blackkitty]

I've planted four fruit trees this year, two apples, a plum and a greengage. They are all starting to show green buds. I was wondering when I should protect them from the frost. Is it only when the blossom starts? Or should I protect the leaf buds as well?

[SueA]

Hi, it's only the blossom which needs protection from frost as it can spoil it & you will not get any fruit.

[bramble]

My plum tree is in full blossom for the past week. I have not put anything over to protect it as its too big. So far so good but most mornings i'm afraid to look outside in case its been blitzed. Its on a south facing wall.

[dabbit]

I haven't put anything over my two apple trees either, I doubt orchard owners cover their vast amount of trees...But then again I could be wrong!

[Amanda1]

Mine are uncovered too. I have two apples and one plum tree. They were supposed to be a xmas present for my dad but my parents ended up not being able to come for xmas so they got planted out rather hastily in my garden before the frost stopped me being able to plant them. I had every expectation that they wouldn't make it but blossom is just starting on them now although the squirrels have done their work and broken alot of the branches. I also had to replace the temporary stakes I had in a couple of weeks ago. I'm a bit worried that I may have killed the trees again by disturbing the roots as I noticed delicate roots quite close to the surface. One of the trees is also wonky (the stake wouldn't go in straight) and I cant's stop the stake with the plum tree being right up against the trunk. My parents keep telling me to look at all the trees outside the end of my garden and remember that they didn't have anyone putting fleece over them, staking them or manuring them and they have managed alright! I'll just keep my fingers crossed and stop worrying about them so much.