Illustration courtesy of Robert O'Brien
Planting Steps
Following these steps will give your tree the best chance of surviving and thriving. All the steps and others are shown in the video.
Prepare the site
- Dig hole 2-3 times the width of root ball
- Dig no deeper than root ball
Prepare the tree
- Expose root flare (where trunk and root meet)
- Work roots free, cut off circling roots
Plant the Tree
- Make sure root flare is above ground
Stake and Tie
- This supports young trees while they establish roots
Build a Berm and Water
- Keep soil 12 inches from trunk
- This will form a basin to hold water
Mulch
- 3-5 inches in a circle around the tree
- Avoid the trunk to prevent decay