Planting a tree is one of the most important aspects of your tree maintenance. When planting your tree it is necessary to take great care to position it right. When you have gathered all the necessary materials for tree planting; (Tree, stake, tie, soil and a watering can) you are ready to plant your tree.

• Dig a Hole – Dig a hole for your tree, twice the size of your chosen tree’s root ball. Be sure to fork  (loosen) the sides of the hole, to allow air and water to permeate the planting pit. This will also allow the tree roots to enter the surrounding soil more easily during planting.
• Lay Fresh Soil & Check Nursery Mark – Lay a bed of fresh soil at the bottom of the pit. Remove the root ball from its container and place the tree you are planting in the hole. We are checking to see that the level of the tree is correct for planting. The tree has what we call a nursery mark, which is the point at which the tree comes out of the ground. This point is important as if the tree is buried too deep and the nursery mark is below the ground the bark will rot. Alternatively, if the nursery mark is above the ground and roots showing then trees’ roots will die ultimately killing the tree.

• Rough the Root Ball – Once the height is established and the tree removed from the container, you can gently rough the edges of the root ball using your fingers. This will expose the root ends and allow some air into the root ball. This is important because the roots have been contained and they need to be encouraged to grow outwards.
• Position Tree in Pit – Next, place the tree in the pit, looking at the positioning of the branches. Take into consideration where the most sun will come from and direct the broadest area of the tree towards it. The largest branch of the tree should be pointing into the prevailing wind, but should not be towards buildings or other trees.
• Fill Remaining Soil Around Tree – Once the tree has been positioned, the remaining soil can be put around the root ball filling the pit. Compacting firmly as you fill the remaining soil. Too much air will allow the roots too much movement. Although, compacting too much will cause water-logging of the soil which may lead to root rotting.

• Check Nursery Mark & Stake Tree – Once the pit is filled and all the roots covered, check again that the nursery mark is at ground level. The stake can now be driven in at an angle outside the pit (so that it crosses within three inches of the main stem). At this point attach the tie to the stake. Go around the tree leaving a two or three inch gap and then attach the tie back to the stake. Make sure the tree is allowed to move freely but supported if there is a strong wind. The stake should be firm and should last at least a year.

To finishing planting your tree, you will need to water your tree thoroughly and apply feed if necessary. You can always contact us at Douglas Fir Tree Care if you need help planting trees.

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