Tips for Your Property From Still Waters Grounds Maintenance

What is the proper way to plant a tree?
Plants endure a variety of stress throughout their lifetime and quite often improper planting is one of them. Fortunately, it is one of the stresses that we can easily eliminate. By planting a tree properly, we can greatly reduce the impact of any other stresses which can occur. Here are a few tips for proper tree planting. Start with the right tree in the right place. There are literally thousands of trees to choose from. Make sure you match the tree's requirements with the conditions of the site you will be planting. Dig a hole larger than the ball of the tree. If working in clay soils, make sure that the sides of the hole are not glazed over. This prevents poor drainage and can cause the roots to rot. Remove all the burlap and or wire baskets from the top of the root ball. Remove the paper wrap from the trunk.

Add water as you backfill the hole with soil. This helps eliminate air pockets and stabilizes the tree. Staking typically is not necessary, but the type, size and location of the tree may deem it necessary. Continue deep, frequent waterings throughout the growing season. Additional watering may be necessary the following season, if drought conditions exist. It takes several years for most trees to overcome transplant shock.