Choosing and Preparing the Perfect Spot for Your New Tree:
To ensure your new tree thrives, select a planting site that offers ample vertical space—free from power lines and other obstructions—and enough width for the tree species you’re planting. Before digging, check for underground utilities by calling 811 at least two days in advance to have them located. Mark the intended dig site with a labeled wooden stake to minimize unnecessary paint markings.
Site Preparation and Hole Dimensions:
Measure the height and width of your tree container to determine the size of the planting hole. Dig a hole that is 8 to 12 inches wider than the container, but no deeper than the container’s depth. This will prevent the tree from settling too deep and promote healthy lateral root growth into the enriched backfill soil.
Soil Preparation and Digging Tips:
When digging, use a tarp to keep the soil organized—place good soil in one pile and debris in another. Amend the excavated soil with a mix of 40% native soil, 50% aged compost, and 10% coarse sand. If you don’t have enough good soil, consider using our bulk planting mix, a reputable bagged mix, or follow the soil recipe with black dirt or loam.
Planting Your Tree:
Once the hole is prepared, remove the tree from its container and check for circling roots. If you find many large roots, make 1 to 2-inch deep cuts into the root ball in three staggered places to encourage outward root growth. Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Install a water monitor pipe and backfill with your custom soil blend. Pack the soil firmly with your heel and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets and stabilize the tree. Build a donut-shaped water well around the hole to aid deep watering.
Staking and Mulching:
Stake large trees with 5-foot metal T-posts to prevent movement and protect the feeder roots. Use two posts for 15-gallon and most 30-gallon trees, three posts for 45-gallon trees, and up to four posts for larger trees like 65-gallon and 95-gallon varieties. Stakes should remain for at least one year. Protect the tree trunk from damage by insulating the ties with black hose or Tree Wrap material.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to suppress weeds and retain moisture, but avoid placing mulch directly against the trunk.