Tree Planting Tips

For spring plantings, plant early

The longer the plant has to grow in the season with cool, moist conditions, the more roots will become established to get it through our hot summer. Avoid summer planting because of the increased moisture stress during the hot, dry months.

Water properly

Allow time between watering for the root area to dry, which promotes additional root development. When you water, water with sufficient water to soak the entire root system and beyond. Remember, you can over-water with respect to frequency, but you cannot use too much water during an application.

Mulch

Mulching should be considered a requirement of tree and shrub planting. Mulch with 3 to 5 inches of organic mulch well beyond the root area of the new planting. Please make sure there is no mulch next to the stem of the plant.

Prune minimally

Correct problems such as multiple leaders and rubbing branches, but leave the rest. The leaves are the source of carbohydrates for new root growth and expansion.