How to properly plant a tree?

Have you decided to plant a tree? This is a more complex operation than it seems. A few precautions must be taken to make the venture a success. From the moment of purchase and the delivery of the tree to your home, delicacy is required. Here are our tips for planting a tree.

Transportation of the tree to be planted

Be very careful when transporting the tree to your home. It must be well protected. Consider using burlap to hold the tree trunk and branches in place. It is also a good idea to gather the ends of the plant with a soft string.

Make sure you plant the tree quickly after it arrives at your home. If, for some reason, you have to wait before putting it in the ground, make sure to store it away from light and heat. Also, you must water its roots regularly.

How to prepare for planting?

Start by digging a hole that is two to three times as wide as the tree’s roots. Its depth must be the same as the span of the latter. When you put the tree in the ground, the collar (the area where the roots and trunk meet) will be at the same level as the ground or a little higher. Be sure to lightly scrape the sides of the hole so that the tree can take root.

Take special care when planting the tree

If the tree to be planted was delivered in a pot, be gentle in removing the roots. Also when you drop it in the hole. If the roots have been wrapped in burlap, place the roots in the hole first before gently removing the container.

As previously mentioned, the collar should be at the same level as the ground. The tree must be straight, forming a 90° angle with the ground. Then pour potting soil around the roots. Note that it is not necessary to put grass in the hole.

Lightly press the soil around the roots until the hole is 2/3 full. This will prevent air pockets from forming. Then pour in water to help settle the soil and cause light drainage. Finally, fill the hole again with soil, forming a small pyramid at the base of the tree.

How to choose the tree to plant?

Beyond the species you wish to see flourish in your garden, it is highly recommended to plant a tree as young as possible. However, if your land does not allow it, planting a tree that is already large enough is still an option.

The advantage of small and young trees is that their root system is much more developed. This is very advantageous for a new plantation since the growth of the tree depends on it. A small and young tree will bloom faster and without stress, neither for the plant nor for the planter.