01 May How To Properly Plant Your Tree
So, you’ve chosen your new tree to enhance your landscape, and now it’s time to plant it. While many trees come with specific planting instructions, the Gabe’s Top It or Drop It team is here to guide you through the tree planting process. The best time to plant your tree is during the dormant season, either after the leaves fall in autumn or before buds sprout in spring. Cooler weather during these periods helps the roots establish themselves, ideally before the summer rains and heat spur new growth.
If you need immediate assistance with planting your trees, please don’t hesitate to contact our team! We are available by phone at (920) 252-2204, by email at gabe@gabestreeservice.com, or online on our contact us page.
Factors to Consider Before Planting Your Tree
Before you plant, consider a few important factors: 1.) the mature height and width of your tree, 2.) proximity to sidewalks, power lines, underground utilities, and other potential hazards. And 3.), think about the implications for cleanup, shade, and views from your property.
Strategic tree placement not only increases property value but also minimizes future maintenance and prevents property damage.
Contact Diggers Hotline
Next, ensure underground utilities are marked before you dig. You can contact the Diggers Hotline at 811 or make an online locate request. This is a free service that helps you avoid costly damages from accidentally hitting underground lines like cable, electric, phone, or gas, which could be dangerous. Allow up to three business days for your property to be marked.
Keep in mind that the Diggers Hotline only marks utilities installed by service providers. For any lines you or a previous homeowner installed (like electric lines to a shed), you’ll need to mark these yourself or hire a private locating service if you’re unsure of their positions. Remember to mark any underground septic, irrigation systems, or propane lines as well.
Steps for Planting Your Tree
Now, you’re ready to plant your tree(s)! Let’s walk through all the steps you should know for effective tree planting:
1. Dig the Hole
The first step of the tree planting process is to carefully dig the hole. Begin by preparing the planting site. Dig a hole that’s 2-3 times wider than the tree’s root ball but matches its depth exactly.
The sides should slope gradually outward to encourage root spread, and the soil should be loosened to prevent glazing.
Next, test the drainage by filling the hole with water and ensuring it drains within 24 hours.
2. Remove the Tree and Check the Roots
Before placing the tree, carefully remove it from its container and examine the roots. The root system should be thoroughly inspected for any signs of damage or disease. If you notice roots circling or binding together, gently separate them or make careful cuts in an X-pattern across the bottom to promote healthy growth.
Keep the roots moist during this process to prevent stress on the tree.
3. Place Tree in Hole
The next step is to carefully place the young tree into the hole.
When positioning the tree, pay special attention to the root flare – the point where the trunk begins to widen at its base.
The flare of the tree should sit slightly above the soil line. During this step, you want to be sure to take the time to double check the tree is standing perfectly straight. You’ll want to check by viewing it from multiple angles to confirm proper alignment.
Consider which side of the tree looks best and orient it toward the main viewing area.
4. Backfill the Hole & Water Periodically
The backfilling process requires patience and attention to detail. Use the original soil to fill the hole, adding it in layers of 4-6 inches. Tamp down each layer gently and water periodically to eliminate air pockets that could damage the roots.
Though it might be tempting, avoid adding fertilizer during this initial planting phase as it can harm young trees. Create a slight soil berm around the hole’s edge to help retain water.
5. Add the Mulch
The next step is adding the mulch to the young tree.
Mulching is crucial for the tree’s establishment. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch in a ring around the tree, extending 4-6 feet in diameter.
We suggest maintaining a clear space of 12-18 inches between the mulch and the trunk to prevent rot and girdling. The mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature.
Need suggestions for which types of mulch to use for your young trees? Contact Gabe’s Tree Service today and our arborists will guide you on which mulch types to buy.
6. Water your Tree Regularly
Proper watering is essential for the newly planted tree’s survival. Plan to provide 6-8 gallons of water weekly, typically split into 2-3 deep watering sessions. Water slowly and deeply to encourage deep root growth, adjusting the schedule based on rainfall and soil conditions. Morning or evening watering is most effective.
This watering regime should continue for at least the first two years, though frequency can be reduced during dormant seasons.
7. Ongoing Tree Care
Maintaining the health of your tree(s) throughout their lifetime is essential for them the thrive.
For ongoing care, we suggest monitoring the newly planted tree regularly for signs of stress or problems. Stake the tree only if necessary for stability, and remove stakes after one growing season.
Another note: protect the trunk from damage caused by lawn equipment, and limit pruning to dead or damaged branches during the first year.
Document your care routine and don’t hesitate to consult your local arborist if concerns arise.
Gabe’s Tree Service is just a phone call away! Call (920) 252-2204 for help with planting your tree(s).
Let Us Help You Plant Your Trees!
With your tree now planted, all that’s left is to let it grow, enjoy its beauty, and avoid any accidental damage from lawn care equipment. Need help with planting your tree? The team at Gabe’s Top It or Drop It Tree Service has more than 40+ years of experience with proper care of many species of tree for any residential or commercial property.
For more information about choosing your new tree, protecting your newly planted tree, which type of soil you should invest in, how much to water your tree, and more, please call us at (920) 252-2204 or contact our team today! Our tree maintenance and tree removal experts serve Appleton, Oshkosh, Waupaca, and Steven’s Point.