01 May How To Properly Plant Your Tree
So, you’ve chosen your new tree to enhance your landscape, and now it’s time to plant it. While many trees come with specific planting instructions, we’re here to guide you through the process if those are unavailable or misplaced.
The best time to plant is during the dormant season, either after the leaves fall in autumn or before buds sprout in spring. Cooler weather during these periods helps the roots establish themselves, ideally before the summer rains and heat spur new growth.
Factors to Consider Before Planting Your Tree
Before you plant, consider a few important factors: the mature height and width of your tree, proximity to sidewalks, power lines, underground utilities, and other potential hazards. Think about the implications for cleanup, shade, and views from your property.
Strategic tree placement not only increases property value but also minimizes future maintenance and prevents property damage.
Contact Diggers Hotline
Next, ensure underground utilities are marked before you dig. You can contact the Diggers Hotline at 811 or make an online locate request. This is a free service that helps you avoid costly damages from accidentally hitting underground lines like cable, electric, phone, or gas, which could be dangerous. Allow up to three business days for your property to be marked.
Keep in mind that the Diggers Hotline only marks utilities installed by service providers. For any lines you or a previous homeowner installed (like electric lines to a shed), you’ll need to mark these yourself or hire a private locating service if you’re unsure of their positions. Remember to mark any underground septic, irrigation systems, or propane lines as well.
Now, you’re ready to plant!
Steps for Planting Your Tree
1. Dig the Hole
To start, you’ll want to dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the tree’s root ball, but only as deep, with sloping sides for optimal root growth.
2. Remove the Tree and Check the Roots
Now, remove the tree from its container and check the roots. If they’re circling or bound, gently straighten them or slice an X across the bottom to free them.
3. Place Tree in Hole
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare (where the roots meet the trunk) is above the soil line. Position the tree straight in the hole, checking from multiple angles to ensure it’s upright.
4. Backfill the Hole & Water Periodically
Begin backfilling the hole, tamping down the soil as you go to remove air pockets and stabilize the root ball. Water intermittently during this process to settle the soil and hydrate the roots. For the time being, you’ll want to skip the fertilizer. Fertilizer can be harmful to young trees.
5. Add the Mulch
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the tree, forming a berm to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch 12-18 inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and girdling.
6. Water your Tree Regularly
You’ll want to make sure your young tree is watered often. Specifically, you’ll want to provide 6-8 gallons per week to support its growth. With your tree now planted, all that’s left is to let it grow, enjoy its beauty, and avoid any accidental damage from lawn care equipment.
Contact Us for More Info About Planting Trees
With your tree now planted, all that’s left is to let it grow, enjoy its beauty, and avoid any accidental damage from lawn care equipment.
Need help with planting your tree? The team at Gabe’s Top It or Drop It Tree Service has more than 40 years of experience with proper care of many species of tree for any residential or commercial property.
For more information about choosing your new tree, protecting your newly planted tree, which type of soil you should invest in, how much to water your tree, and more, please contact our team today!