Planting New Trees

One of our favorite tree activities is planting a new tree. This brief time in the hopefully long life of the tree is one of the most critical life events it will face. You see, planting trees is not natural to them – the naturally grow from a seed, and they naturally never move. Trees that come from a nursery are often of mixed origin –the rootstock is seed grown, but the trunk is grafted on. Also, when root systems are confined by a container, they can grow into a balled-up tangle.

Tree planting is not rocket science, but it is tree science. This starts with selecting a tree species that will fit the planting site, ecologically as well as size wise. Big shade trees need lots of root space! Once that choice is made, find one in the nursery that doesn’t have a damaged stem or branches, and with a good set of roots (pull them out of the bucket and look at them). A few circling roots can be cut off but lots of them are a red flag.

Dig a shallow, broad hole for the root ball to sit in. Check for stem girdling roots and remove those. The tops of the highest roots should be at the soil surface when all the work is done. Water well along the way to make sure the roots start out in their new home well hydrated! Legacy Tree Company loves to plant, so give us a call and we’ll do it for you and do it well!

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