Did a hole twice as deep and twice as wide as the pot that your tree comes in.
Fill hole with good draining soil, add water to wet soil then plant tree only as deep as it is in the original pot (roots only).
Water again after patting down soil around tree, let settle and then step around the trunk of the tree to eliminate any air pockets that may be in the soil.
Water every couple of days until tree is established then only as needed, watch leaves for drooping.
When the tree is about 3 feet high (from soil level) prune back about 1 foot at a 45° angle. Look for new shoots coming and if there any signs of new branches then prune just above there.
DO NOT plant where there is threat of water settling as the root system does not like too much water. The tree only needs about 18 inches of rain a year and is quite drought resistant.
You will soon see 2-3 new branches growing and when they get to be about 2 feet long you can prune them back in the same way as above. Continue pruning back each year top and sides to your desired size.
Trees should be planted at least 20 feet apart to allow for full growth. After shaping into a nice round head you can allow growth to up to 60 feet. For best resistance against hurricanes, keep the growth to about 30/40 feet.
Fruit will start appearing after about 3 years in the ground. Eat and enjoy the flesh and chew the leaf and seed for good health benefits.
Use the leaf for tea and use all cuttings around any trees or under houses or in attics against insects and termites.
Any questions please dont hesitate to call us at 367-4117 and thank you for supporting Abaco Neem and the cultivation of neem trees throughout our islands.
