Planting
A healthy tree starts at planting time. If you’ve ever had to contend with girdling roots or trees planted in inappropriate places, you know how critical planting day is. Fortunately, using proper planting techniques is easy to do. Here are the most important things to remember:
- Thorough root pruning. After you’ve removed the tree from the pot and you’re ready to plant it in the hole, score the roots with a knife down the sides of the root ball every inch. Do this on the bottom of the root ball too. The goal is to break the roots free from the shape of the pot and allow them to spread out. You may feel like you’re hurting the plant but root pruning encourages new root growth and makes a huge difference. Some people also use root washing, box cutting, or other methods with success. For a visual example of root pruning and planting, click here.
- Planting depth. Do not plant your new tree too deep. This practice is common, which is a true shame, because it is detrimental to tree health and leads to root girdling down the line. Aim to plant a tree so that you can just see the root flare, where the trunk meets the roots. There should be an elegant curve where the trunk widens and the roots begin. If you are planting a tree without a prominent root flare, find the first big root and make sure it is just beneath the soil. Planting any length of the trunk underground is not good and should be corrected immediately.
Watering and Fertilizing
Watering new plants can mean the difference between a thriving, beautiful plant and a crispy desiccated mess. In most cases, the former is preferred.
- Watering. Make sure to water a newly planted tree regularly. Even drought tolerant plants need to be hydrated in order to establish, so don’t skip them! Mature trees also benefit from watering during periods of drought. If it hasn’t rained in weeks and weeks, it is a good idea to give your trees a drink. Our watering guide has helpful measurements and frequencies for watering and we’re always happy to discuss your particular situation if questions arise.
- Fertilizing. Using a slow release fertilizer at planting time can help get your new tree off to a good start. We have organic and synthetic options that work well. A good aged compost is also a great choice and can help improve soil texture over time in addition to providing nutrients. Always follow the instructions on the packaging when applying fertilizer to make sure you get the right dose.
Pruning
Really great pruning is an art and bad pruning is common. Good pruning, though, is doable by following a few basic rules: prune at the right time and make the cuts in the right place.
- Timing. Dead, damaged, and diseased branches can be removed as they occur. Any significant pruning, like removing large limbs or major reshaping, should be completed when the tree is dormant in late winter or very early spring. Pruning certain trees, like oaks and elms, at the wrong time can make them more susceptible to disease so dormant pruning is recommended.
- Where to cut. Make pruning cuts just above the branch collar, the swollen ring where the branch attaches to the trunk. The healing power comes from that branch collar so leave it intact! On the flip side, don’t leave a big nubbin. A large nub takes longer for the tree to seal over, leaving it vulnerable to infection and pests for a longer time.
- Tools. Make pruning cuts with a sharp, clean tool that is appropriate for the job. If the tool is struggling to make the cut or tearing the bark, you need a different tool.
Pruning Note: Most trees do best when no more than 20-25% of the tree’s overall canopy is removed at one time. This helps maintain the tree’s health and structural integrity while allowing it to recover properly between pruning sessions.
Winter Protection and Seasonal Care
As the weather cools down and the days shorten, your trees will head into dormancy. Just a little extra effort will ensure they get the beauty sleep they deserve.
- Protection from animal damage. Protect the bark of new trees with tree wraps. Apply them at the end of summer before the deer start rubbing and leave them on until spring when the danger of rabbits chewing the bark has passed. Make sure to choose wraps that will protect above the snow line. You can usually stop wrapping trees once the bark has matured to a knobbier or rougher texture. Pay extra attention to fruit trees and very small trees. Deer fencing is a good idea where deer pressure is high.
- Winter Hydration. Newly planted trees should be watered until the ground is frozen, usually around the end of November but can vary seasonally. As long as water can soak into the ground, you should water. Established trees also benefit from a deep watering before winter sets in, particularly if we have a dry fall. Pay special attention to keeping evergreens well hydrated.
- Mulch. Mulch should be applied at planting time for new trees and topped up as needed. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk of the tree to allow air flow and water infiltration. Shoot for a mulching depth of 3 – 4 inches to inhibit weeds, retain moisture, and insulate roots. Make sure new trees are mulched before winter. Pay special attention to anything planted at the end of the season or trees that are tender or sensitive to drying out.
By keeping a few key principles in mind, you can enjoy healthy, beautiful trees for years to come. If you have questions about caring for a specific tree, we are here and happy to help!
