How to Plant a Tree

picture of a hand holding a small tree near the ground.Planting a new tree on your property is like making a significant investment that will be with you for the years to come. Trees have the power to improve your home’s curb appeal and increase the value of your home by a significant 20 percent. As the investor, you are responsible for the upkeep of your tree, so it thrives and blooms where it’s planted. It is crucial that you plant the tree at the right location and use the proper method to transplant it to ensure that it will survive the years to come. Plant your tree right by using these suggestions below. 

When to Plant a Tree

It is best to plant new trees when they are in their dormant state. In most cases, this is anytime between the latter part of fall and the start of spring. When the weather is cold, the tree’s roots have better chances of growing, unlike in warm seasons where trees may go through stress and struggle to stay alive after it has been replanted. 

Tree Stress When Planting

When the tree is being prepared to be sold, it is placed into a burlap, and a large portion of its root is removed. During this time, the tree may undergo stress or shock, which results in the tree not growing at an ideal pace. The tree also gets a lesser chance to survive when they are under shock. It is crucial to prepare the location beforehand and handle the plant with care to minimize the risk of stress. 

Steps in Planting a New Tree

Follow these guidelines to ensure the health of your tree and minimize shock and stress and encourage growth. 

  • Coordinate with your local utility service to find out any underground lines before you start digging.
  • Locate the tree flare, which is the point on which the trunk emerges from the root structure. If you cannot see the trunk flare above the level of the ground, it means that the tree is planted too deep. 
  • The hole you dig must be at least twice deeper and broader than the burlapped container. This is the ideal width and depth of the hole to allow enough quality soil to fill the hole. 
  • Place the tree carefully in the hole, considering the trunk flare, and remember not to plant it too deep to encourage healthy growth. 
  • The tree should be at 90 degrees angle to the ground to ensure it is planted upright and straight.
  • Backfill the hole with high-quality soil and pack it firmly. Include organic materials to ensure the best quality of the topsoil. You don’t want to fertilize the tree yet because it will encourage undesired growth that can compete with the tree’s roots.
  • You can stake the tree if you are unsure of its structural stability. This will ensure the tree will not grow in a leaning position. 
  • Put mulch around the base of the tree for better moisture absorption. Mulch does a lot for the health of the tree because it keeps the temperature in the soil consistent and prevents soil erosion.
  • Water the tree once a week, or depending on the weather. Do not overwater the plant, but keep the area damp.

Contract Vanderbilt Tree Service for any tree care questions you may have.

Vanderbilt Tree Service

4014 Nakoosa Trail #204, Madison, WI 53714

(608) 351-1134