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How to Plant Trees

Member
By djackman
User-Submitted Article
(19 Ratings)
Plant Trees
Plant Trees

Simple steps to planting trees

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • shovel
  • watering hose
  • elbow grease
  • compost
  • dirt
  1. Step 1
    root ball
     
    root ball

    The best rule to follow when planting any tree, is to dig a hole twice the size of the root ball. Lets say the root ball of the tree you are planting is 2 foot high by 2 foot deep, well then you need to dig a hole 4 foot by 4 foot.

  2. Step 2
     

    If your soil is clay or shale, remove as much of this dirt from the hole and dispose of. You can buy planting soil rather cheap at any lawn and garden store. your tree will need good soil for root growth.

  3. Step 3
     

    Once you have the hole dug, fill in the bottom with about 2 inches of planting soil, then place your tree in the hole, spreading roots if possible. Note: if tree is in plastic container, remove prior to planting, if tree is in a burlap sack cut away the sides and you can either remove or peel down and plant it all, the burlap will rot away over time.

  4. Step 4
     

    Once the tree is safely in the hole, backfill the hole with topsoil, and compost if you can get your hands on some. I have an article on how to compost easily. Leave whatever part of the tree that was sticking out of the container above ground level. Then water thoroughly when done watering, mulch around the surface of the ground. This help retain moisture. Water thoroughly each week for the first six months especially in dry weather. This will ensure healthy roots and good growth.Check out my resources below for low costs on garden supplies.

Tips & Warnings
  • compost is key to good growth
  • mulch is essential for moisture retention
  • Use good soil, remove shale or clay
  • Do not plant to deep.

Comments  

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on 9/5/2009 Nice article on planting trees.

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on 3/26/2009 Great tips. A friend is giving me a 7' weeping spruce, so I will be doing this in the next day or two. 5* and a recommendation.

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on 3/15/2009 Great article on planting trees! 5*

athome said

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on 3/14/2009 Digging is the hardest part. 5*

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on 2/26/2009 I'm planting 2 trees this weekend in my front yard. Good info. 5*

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