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Planting a Tree
Trees can reduce energy usage, act as a windbreak,
reduce noise, control erosion, clean the air, increase property values and make people
feel good. Planting a tree is an investment in time, money, and the future.
Here are a few tips to insure that you get a good return on your investment.
Digging the hole
In all but sandy soils dig the hole 1 to 2 inches
less than the depth of the root ball and two to three times as wide.
Installing the tree
Carefully remove the tree from the container, cut
circling roots and those matted at the bottom. Set the root ball so its top is one to two
inches above grade. Backfill with originally removed soil and gently firm the soil to hold
the tree in place and minimize air pockets. Build a 4-inch berm directly around the root ball.
Adding Mulch
Add organic mulch such as leaf litter, shredded bark, wood chips, etc. Mulch three to four thick helps
protect tree roots from temperature extremes, conserves soil moisture, and helps prevent grass from
completing for nutrients. Shredded bard and larger wood chips also discourages lawn mowers and weed
eaters from hitting the trunk. Keep the mulch 3 to 4 inches away from the trunk.
Water Regularly
It is best to water a tree when planted. For deciduous trees wait three to four weeks after leafing out
to water again. Watering regularly with 15 gallons during the growing season will promote healthy development.
Water about once a week during growing season, this fluctuates with climate extremes. Taper watering in
early-fall as the tree stops growing for winter. Over watering and under watering will have a negative
impact on a tree.
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