Tips and Checklist for Tree Planting and Care
Pick the right tree for your area. There are many regional differences and specific microclimates within your property – that’s where our expert designers and tree care professionals can help.
Plant strategically. Properly chosen species and sited trees can help in many ways, from energy reduction due to their shade benefits to noise reduction to improving air and water quality. Location and proper species selection can help with future maintenance issues too, helping to avoid interference with homes and power lines and the cleanup of leaves and branches.
Plant properly. Follow the planting directions for individual trees. Preparation of the planting area before the tree arrives is helpful. The planting pit should typically be three times the root ball width. Many trees are planted too deeply or too shallow. Measure the rootball depth when the tree arrives and adjust your planting pit accordingly. Always remove the wire basket and burlap from the root ball, and inspect the root ball before backfilling your planting pit. Soil amendments may be necessary depending on your particular soils and the type of tree selected.
Partially composted wood chip mulch should be spread around the base of the tree to the drip line to create the healthiest environment for tree roots. Be sure to keep mulch away from touching the trunk of the tree. The moisture that mulch holds can cause the tree to rot at its base.
Do regular inspections. Check for obvious signs of insects and diseases, and look at the structural condition of the tree. Is it growing in such a way that might cause problems to other limbs, nearby trees, power lines or buildings? If you’ve planted strategically you’ve likely already avoided a majority of the possible issues that may come up.
Leave tree climbing to the professionals, practice good pruning techniques and be aware of what’s current. The pruning practices of 20 years ago are outdated today. Our experts are trained with the most current best practice standards.