Tree Location
Always consider the size the tree will grow to when it is mature. It may look small when you plant it, but remember that it cannot be moved easily once it has established. Look at a mature tree of the same species to get some idea of the space the tree will need.
When to Plant
Trees should generally be planted in winter, when they are dormant, i.e. from November to February. Trees in containers can be planted at other times but if so they will need more watering and may suffer from shock.
Bare-rooted trees should be planted in winter, ideally before the end of February.
What to Do
• Dig a hole that is slightly wider and deeper than the roots of the tree. The extra space below and at the sides will be in-filled; but, having been loosened, it will help the roots to establish. Square holes are better than round holes because tree roots can go round in circles if unable to break out of a round hole (yes, seriously!)
• Back-fill the hole a little so that the tree will be at exactly the same height in the ground as it was at the nursery. If a tree is planted too deep, the stem may rot; if too shallow, the roots above ground will die
• Put the tree in the hole and replace the soil, firming it down all around the tree. It’s essential that the tree is not loose in the ground: the roots need to be immobilized
• Heel the soil firm (with the heel of your boot) as you back-fill, but do not compact the soil by hammering it down until it is like concrete. Compacted soil prevents water and air circulation, causing roots to die
• Now water the tree and cover the soil with a good heap of mulch, (e.g. 6-month-old woodchip).
Stakes Help to Stabilise Trees
Unless it’s very small, the new tree should be staked until the roots grow sufficiently to provide adequate anchorage. Trees move a lot in the wind and, if they’re not staked, the root-ball can quickly become loose. This can kill the tree because the roots fail to establish.
Tips for Staking:
• Stakes must be firm enough to prevent movement of the root-ball
• Stakes should be between the tree and the most likely direction of the wind so that the tree pulls away from the stake rather than rubbing against it
• Ideally, trees should be staked close to the ground (at approximately 1/3 of the clear stem). Some movement of the trunk is natural and the tree responds to wind movement by growing a trunk thick enough to withstand the force of the wind.
• Urban trees also tend to have tree guards to protect the vulnerable roots, and the stake performs a double function in supporting both the tree and the guard.
Newly planted trees will ongoing watering for as long as 3 years or so (weather conditions dependent) – see our guide next time on taking care of newly planted tree stock.
Looking for trees for your garden? We are well connected to all the best local tree nurseries and can supply, deliver, plant, mulch and stake for you. Call Andrew on 01256 817369 or 07771 883061.