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Tree planting is an ancient practice and one that is most rewarding. There is something
quite special about planting something that will most likely out live you and become the home
for many organisms throughout its life. Planting a new tree is in my consideration one of the
most positive ways of contributing to the long term health and sustainability of our urban
landscape.
Many people joke that all you need to do is dig a hole and put the tree in with the leaves
pointing up. While at a basic level this is correct, taking a few thoughtful steps prior to planting
and ensuring the tree has what it needs in the years following, go a long way to creating a
healthy specimen that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Before planting, thought should be given to selecting the right tree for the right spot.
Mature size, fruit/seed production, and what light, soil and moisture conditions the tree needs
should all be considered prior to visiting the garden centre to pick a tree. This will prevent a
myriad of problems which can result in the tree being stressed out or requiring removal.
Once you have selected the right tree for the right spot, you are ready to plant.
Following these steps will significantly reduce the transplant stress the tree faces after planting.
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Find the root flare on the tree trunk. This widening of the trunk at the trees base is
where the trunk transitions into the roots. If this is not visible some soil will need to
be removed from the top of the rootball to expose it. This flare should be equal to or
slightly above the finished grade after planting. The height of the rootball is used to
determine the depth of the hole.
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One of my favourite tree quotes is "It is better to plant a $100 tree in a $200 hole
than to plant a $200 tree in a $100 hole". The hole two to three times the width and
equal to the height of the rootball. It is important to loosen the soil surrounding the
young roots so they can extend into the new soil. If the hole is too small or the edges
are compacted, the roots will just grow in circles inside the hole leading to major
problems. The hole should not be any deeper than the height of the rootball or the
roots will have trouble developing due to a lack of oxygen. The number one problem
I see with new trees is planting too deep.
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If the tree is in a container, loosen the rootball as much as possible without
damaging the major roots. Place the tree in the hole and be sure that is straight
before backfilling. This may require someone viewing from several angles. It is tough
to straighten a tree after backfilling has begun.
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Backfill the hole by about 1/4 and gently pack the soil around the rootball. If the tree is
balled and burlapped then remove the burlap and wire from at least the top third of
the rootball. Continue adding soil a few inches at a time and gently but firmly pack
the soil so that all the air pockets are eliminated as they will dry out the roots.
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Stake the tree only if required. Most trees will not require staking but on windy sites
or with very top heavy trees, it may be necessary. Two stakes should be used on
opposite sides of the tree. The material used to attach the tree should be flexible
and allow for movement in the wind but catch the tree before it tips over. The
material should also be soft to keep from damaging the tree's bark. The stakes
should never be left on longer than 2 years.
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Mulch the area disturbed to dig the hole. This will conserve moisture and buffer soil
temperatures. Wood chips work best but many organic mulches are available. This
mulch should be 2-4 inches deep but should be kept an inch or two away from the
trunk to prevent decay.
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After planting, the soil should be kept moist. Overwatering can cause some problems
so generally trees should be watered once a week without rain and more frequently
in hot, dry conditions. Pruning should be left for a year or two after planting unless
branches were damaged during planting. Too much pruning will deplete energy that
the tree needs to get established.
Following these steps will give your tree the best chance to thrive, and as most
Calgary gardeners would attest, in our climate they may need as much help as they can
get.
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