Planting Trees: Essential Tips for Healthy Growth

Basic Information on Tree Planting:

When planting trees, consider their mature height for proper spacing.

• Smaller Trees: Dogwoods and redbuds typically mature at 15 to 25 feet tall.

• Larger Trees: Maples, oaks, and poplars can grow 40 feet and taller.

Spacing Rule: Plant trees as far apart or away from foundations as their mature height. The canopy can spread as wide as the tree's height, and the root system can encompass much of the canopy area.

Avoid Planting Near:

• Septic Systems: Roots seek moisture from pipes and can cause damage. Plant trees no closer than 50 feet from septic systems and field lines.

• Septic and Water Lines: Use ornamental grasses, perennials, ground covers, and low-growing shrubs instead.

Preparing the Ground:

• Hard or Clay Soil: Add coarse sand and organic matter to reduce compaction.

• Loose or Sandy Soil: Add topsoil and organic matter to improve soil quality, nutrients, and density.

Planting Bare Root Trees:

1. Hole Preparation: Dig holes 8 to 14 inches wide and 12 to 14 inches deep, or at least 3 to 4 inches deeper and 4 to 5 inches wider than the root system. Pour 2 inches of water into the hole and allow it to soak.

2. Planting: Remove plastic wrap and shredded newspaper from the roots. Hold the plant steady above the root collar, and fill the hole with soil, pressing lightly.

3. Watering: Water the soil around the plant, and add more soil if the level drops. Apply 3 inches of mulch around the base, forming a well for watering focus.

4. Watering Schedule: Water every 2 to 3 days for the first 4 to 6 weeks, adjusting for rainfall. Gradually phase into less frequent watering to allow the plant to find moisture.

5. Mulching: Helps keep soil cool, moist, and reduces weed seed germination.

Planting Container Grown Trees:

1. Hole Preparation: Dig holes 2 to 4 inches wider and 3 to 5 inches deeper than the container. Pour 2 inches of water into the hole and allow it to soak.

2. Planting: Loosen the soil from the pot and gently pry the plant's root system out. Comb through the roots to spread them apart. Hold the plant steady above ground level and fill the hole with soil, pressing lightly.

3. Watering: Water the soil around the plant, and add more soil if the level drops. Apply 3 inches of mulch around the base, forming a well for watering focus.

4. Watering Schedule: Water every 2 to 3 days for the first 4 to 6 weeks, adjusting for rainfall. Gradually phase into less frequent watering to allow the plant to find moisture.

5. Mulching: Helps keep soil cool, moist, and reduces weed seed germination.

Fertilizing Trees:

• First Year: Adding organic matter and using organic mulch often eliminates the need for additional fertilizer.

• Second Year: Wait for the plants to begin leafing out before starting a fertilizer program. Use a timed-release formula for periodic nutrient release.

• Tip: In late winter/early spring, prune dead, broken, or crossing branches for a clean appearance.

Special Considerations:

• Grafted/Budded Trees: Plant and mulch to the crook, leaving it exposed.

• Fast Growing Trees: Lombardy Poplar, Hybrid Poplar, and Hybrid Willow should be planted 12 to 18 inches above their root collar for stability.