How to Plant a Tree: Part Three

October 26, 2009

One of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself and the environment is to plant a tree.  For more information about planting trees or seasonal tree care tips, visit http://www.davey.com. 

RJ Laverne, Davey Tree Service expert and ISA Certified Arborist, is going to continue taking you through how to plant a tree, step by step.

Following these simple tree planting steps will help ensure that your tree is a strong and healthy addition to your landscape.  

Step 10: Add a good amount of mulch to the surface surrounding the tree. Mulch helps control the temperature under the soil, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Also, mulch helps keep the soil moist; the tree roots need extra water until the new roots are established.  

Step 11: Keep mulch a few inches away from the base of the tree. You don’t want to cover up the root collar; it can promote decay of tender bark. Make the mulch layer about 3-5 inches thick, it keeps the tree happy while establishing new roots.  

Step 12: Observe the location of the tree.  If the tree is in a windy location, add stakes and support to keep it upright. Be careful about the material you use to strap the tree in place. Make sure to use flexible and flat strapping material around the trunk of the tree. 

Step 13: For the next year take very special care of the newly planted tree. Always make sure the tree has enough water, the mulch is in place, and pay particular attention to the shape and color of the leaves. 

Step 14: In a year, consider doing the first pruning of the tree and adding fertilizer.  Specifically, a slow release fertilizer to promote root growth and get the roots established in the soil. 

This may seem like a lot of information, but many tree health issues we see as the tree matures can be traced back to improper planting. 

Contact your local professionally trained arborist with any concerns or questions you may have during you next tree planting project.


Missed Part 1 and 2 of our Tree Planting series? 

View Part 1 here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vmpl3jd-ra4

View Part 2 here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljoNjuKFqeA

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How to Plant a Tree: Part Two
How to Plant a Tree: Part Two

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