Episode 881 · May 9, 2025
881: Tom Spellman on Fruit Trees in Extreme Weather
881: Fruit Trees in Extreme Weather
In this episode
Greg Peterson from Urban Farm Fruit Tree Program and Tom Spellman, a seasoned nursery expert with Dave Wilson Nursery, discuss the intricacies of managing fruit trees in a changing climate. They provide an educational overview of effective fruit tree planting and maintenance techniques. Key topics include the importance of proper planting mix, establishing adequate basins with woody mulch, painting trunks for heat protection, and using cover crops like cow peas and sweet potatoes to maintain soil health. They also emphasize supplemental irrigation during high heat periods, the significance of rootstocks, and managing wind stress with natural windbreaks. The session includes practical advice on insect management, the benefits of companion planting, and ensuring optimal nutrient supply tailored to tree growth stages. The wrap with announcing the launch of Tom's new YouTube channel, 'Growing with Tom Spellman,' and a motivational note on personalizing one's garden space.
A Fruit Tree Chat with Tom Spellman.
In This Fruit Tree Chat
Our Guest
Tom Spellman has been involved in the nursery business since 1973. At that time, he was a freshman in high school and rode his skateboard to work. God love that.
Since then, he has worked for several different nurseries, including Laverne Nursery, where he was general manager for 20 years. Most recently he is the Southwestern Sales Manager for Dave Wilson Nursery for the last two decades.
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