These pests gnaw the bark at the trunk or chew roots resulting in damage to the tree. In severe cases the damage can kill the tree. Not only mice and voles can injure the tree, rabbits can also be the culprit. To reduce tree damage, wrap a piece of quarter or half-inch mesh, hardware cloth around the trunk of the fruit tree. This guard should be 24 inches high and be buried three to four inches below the soil surface.
Fruit trees have their optimal soil pH and fertility range.
Consider soil testing for pH and nutrient levels now. Periodic soil testing will tell you if the soil pH needs to be adjusted for any given fruit crop. Also, specific fertilization recommendations are given in the report. Soil pH adjustment and fertilization are based on these test results. Soil testing is a good way to maintain good plant growth and fruit production.