I planted a grafted apple tree in a pot and shortly thereafter realized the graft union is about 5-6 inches above the soil line. My gardening books and online searches recommend the union be no more than 3 inches above the soil line.
Will it harm the tree if I leave it as is, or should I stop being lazy and replant it?
If you are worried about it, put a 6' diameter circle of topsoil mixed with compost around the tree to a depth of about three inches. I do not recommend replanting as this will set back the tree. My method will actually speed up the maturity. It works especially well if you maintain a 1" mulch of organic matter around the tree. One of my trees has the graft about 6" above ground and it is fine without any protection.
