We are all now familiar with the need to plant trees to not only improve a garden, but also to help the environment. Years of enjoyment can be had from observing a tree through the seasons and years, and you will have also provided a habitat for a vast variety of insects and birds.
Planting a tree, either in a bed or a container, is a simple easy task and when completed delivers a pleasing sense of satisfaction.
The ideal time for planting trees is between October and April when the tree is dormant.
Soil Preparation
Whether the tree is containerised or bare rooted, soil preparation is key to giving your new tree a good start.
Dig the soil over and incorporate some organic matter and fertiliser, covering a wider area than just where the tree will be sited. Good drainage is essential to prevent the roots becoming waterlogged and rotting so determine your soil type to maximise the health of your tree.
Hole Size
The correct size of hole is essential to ensure the roots can get established and have access to nutrients and oxygen. In general the width of the hole should be 2½ to 3 times the size of the root ball and deep enough so that when planted the tree is no deeper than the soil in which it was grown.
Once your hole is dug, fluff up the soil in the base and add some fertiliser to help the roots establish easily. Remove the container or wrapping, tease out any compacted roots and gently lower the root ball into the hole, checking that the soil level at the base of the trunk is level with the top of the hole. Infill round the roots with soil making sure you fill any pockets of air, firm the soil without compacting it and water well in.
If you have bought a bare root tree it is essential to plant it immediately. However if you have bought a root ball or container tree but are unable to plant it promptly, then as long as you keep the root ball or container moist no harm will be done.
Stake
Larger newly planted trees may need staking to give support for added stability but the stake should be removed once the roots are established, usually after two growing seasons. Use a stake no higher than two thirds of the size of the tree and use flexible materials to tie the tree to the stake to allow for movement.
Remember a tree is far more expensive to replace that a mere garden shrub, so following these basic steps will give your tree a good start to create strong root growth and become an established feature in your garden.
