If considering planting a tree on your property there are some things you will need to know. A fun part of the process is deciding what kind of tree you want to plant and if it is able to flourish in your part of the country.
Look at the Root Covering
Once you’ve decided on a tree and where it will go, take a look at its roots. Are they:
- Placed in a container (usually made of thin plastic and black or tan in colour)
- Balled and burlapped (possibly wrapped in plastic)
- With bare roots
Take Care of the Roots
The first step with bare root trees is to place the root system in a container with water. Don’t let the roots dry out in the air. Leave them in the container with water for 3 to 5 hours. Dig a hole two times larger than the width of the root system. Then place the plant in the center of the hole. Hold the tree so that the root collar is even with the ground. Start placing dirt around the roots until it holds the tree up.
If you’re planting from a container go ahead and dig a hole about three times larger than the container. Carefully remove the tree from the container. Don’t jerk the tree out as it might rip the roots and kill the tree. Try to keep all of the dirt intact with the root system. You can then place the tree in the center of the hole.
If you’re working with balled and burlapped roots you will want to dig a hole about 4 times wider than the root ball. Only dig the hole deep enough to stop right at the root collar. Do not carry the tree by its trunk; carry the tree by holding the root ball. If you carry the tree by the trunk there is a chance you will rip it the roots and kill the plant. Once you place the tree in the center of the hole cut off the burlap, carefully trying to keep everything intact.
When your tree is in place fill in the gaps with dirt. Try to keep the dirt even with the root collar. You don’t want roots exposed above ground but you also don’t want the trunk underground. Avoid pesticides and chemicals when you are taking care of a new tree. Apply mulch on the ground to help protect the roots from above ground elements. Feel free to water the tree and keep an eye on it as it grows and de-stresses from the move.
Tree planting can be a great deal of work and it might be easier to hire a professional to do the job and make sure it grows up healthy. Dave Lund Tree Service has over 35 years’ experience working with trees and can care for your trees. We know all about root feeding, aerating, pest control, storm damage, stump removal, and so much more! Reach us at (905) 884-0511.