Adding trees in your yard is a lifelong investment. This investment’s fate depends on how you take care of it and how you planted it initially, and if you even chose the right species. Planting a tree correctly gives it a healthy start and helps it reach its full potential despite environmental and natural factors available.
Tree Selection
Choosing the right species of tree is fundamental for the project’s success. It should be based on the location and the goal you want the tree to offer. Select a tree that will blossom in your region, and make sure it has plenty of room to grow on your property.
Location for Planting
Planting the tree in the right location will save you from unanticipated future issues. Learn the needs of your trees, especially its height when it matures. Do not plant near any fixed building or power line to ensure they do not interfere with them down the line. Root invasion can lead to costly damages if not addressed earlier.
Planting Technique
A lot of people make the mistake of just digging a hole and placing the tree into it. This usually results in the tree not being able to establish itself properly in the ground, which makes it susceptible to falling in the face of a storm or high winds. The best technique is to cultivate the soil in a circular motion in the area where you plan to plant the tree. Dig a hole in the plant’s container diameter and depth. Throw away weeds and grass from the site. Help loosen the soil by cultivating it.
Loosen the Root Ball
When you have dug a hole and cultivated the soil, remove the root ball from the container carefully. Use your hands to loosen outside roots at the bottom and sides of the root ball. Ensure the root ball is unharmed while loosening the soil around it.
Place the Tree
Carefully place the tree in the hole where the trunk meets the roots at about 1 to 2 inches above the ground. Make sure to plant the tree at the proper depth because it will have a difficult time developing due to lack of oxygen.
Remove the Stakes
Over-staking is another common mistake when planting a tree. You don’t have to re-stake a tree if it is established enough to support itself up. If the tree needs assistance, you can use stakes and ties. The stakes should be placed on opposite sides of the tree, ideally 18 inches from the trunk. The ties should not be too tight to allow the tree to move freely through winds.
Remove weeds and grass from the soil before you backfill the hole with it. It is unnecessary to add soil amendments.
Finishing Touches
- Make a circular berm at the base of the tree’s circumference to help preserve water and deliver it to its roots.
- Water the tree generously after planting. Doing this will assist its development and make sure it is established in the soil.
- Spread mulch at the tree’s base to lock moisture in, insulate, and protect the newly planted tree from weed and grass.
For tree care tips and professional tree service, call Matt with Sarah Tree Service Schaumburg, 22 E Schaumburg Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60194, (847) 582-0763.