New Trees: Getting Off To A Good Start

When it comes to new trees, it's crucial that they are off to a good start, especially for those first couple years of growing. Most of that good start comes from how you plant the tree in the first place.

Here are some things to consider when planting your new tree to get it to a great start:

Depth for Planting New Trees

How deep you plant the tree has a major factor in how your tree grows. If you don't plant deep enough or too deep, your tree won't get the nutrients it needs to grow. In fact, you should dig your hole so it's at the depth of the tree collar and no deeper.

Looking for more ways to make your lawn spectacular? Check out tips for a better lawn here.

Otherwise, your tree will have a stunted growth, like Cutter's grape tree when he tried "to establish a root system for it."

What to do with Roots on a New Tree

Speaking of roots, you'll have to pay attention to the roots the tree has grown in the pot already. Sometimes when the tree has sat in it for a while, the roots will circle around in the pot since they have nowhere else to go.

If planted without cutting the roots a bit, they can continued to grow in a circle instead of out, again stunting the tree's growth.

Soil & Water Needs

Before you start putting the soil back in the hole, make sure your tree is level, or you'll have a crooked tree. Otherwise, put the soil in about half way and then water the soil. This will help give the tree a good starting drink. Add the rest of the soil and pack it down around the tree like a dam to help retain water. You can add mulch too since it will help the tree retain water as well.

Post to Support your Newly Planted Tree

Planting the posts outside the tree mound will not only provide more stability, but also stay out of the way for watering and the tree's growth. Also, place the straps higher so that when the tree grows, they won't slip down the tree and become ineffective in keeping the tree straight.

Need some tools for your new tree? Check out our garden tool selection here.

For a more in depth look on how to get your tree off to a good start, check out our AskNorth40 Episode here: