Planting trees is simply a necessary rite of spring for many garden enthusiasts. Garden centers around the country are filled to the brim with people looking to green up their yards with trees, shrubbery, annuals and seed starting.
So, once you get that tree home it’s planting time. But is it really as easy as digging a hole in the ground and plopping your new purchase in? Yes, it can be that easy. Here are a few tips to follow for your tree planting venture.
growing
When trees are stored in a nursery for long periods of time, it becomes necessary to re-burlap them, as the burlap could rot before the tree is sold. If it has been re-wrapped, then there is a possibility that nylon strings are between the layers of burlap; so check the tree and stem carefully before tree planting. It is extremely important that you make sure nylon isn’t used, as it does not rot and will actually constrict and eventually kill the tree two or three years down the road.
A very critical part of planting a tree is the soil in which you plant it. If your soil is heavy clay, then it is ideal to add rich topsoil to the mix when planting. If for some reason you can’t do that, then bury the plant so that at least 2 inches or more of the root ball is above the existing grade.
Do keep in mind that trees planted this way can dry out. But, planting them flush to the ground in heavy clay can mean that the roots will get too much water.
planting guides
Keep in mind that most trees are grown in well drained soil. That means that the soil around the root ball is porous so that water can easily pass through. It is recommended that you plant the root ball at least 2 inches above grade and backfill around the ball with the soil you shoveled out when you dug the hole.
Backfilling using clay soil is almost like building a dam to keep the excess water from over-saturating the root ball of your newly planted tree.
By planting in a good, nutrient-rich topsoil, you are doing all you can to keep your deciduous or coniferous plant healthy and happy. Whether you have good soil or bad, be careful not to plant your trees too deeply.
seed starting
You should always stake a newly planted tree so that it doesn’t rock back and forth in the wind. Thousands of trees are killed each year by gardening enthusiasts who just don’t understand how critical planting depth is. Consult a planting guides if you need further instructions.
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