How to Plant a Tree for Charity
Planting trees for charity is a popular way to give back. Adults, teens and kids can participate in planting. Trees are planted in memory of loved ones, to save forests, to stop global changes and to help our neighbors. It doesn't take much money or special equipment to plant a tree. There are a few basic steps to help ensure that the tree gets a good start.
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Things You'll Need
- A balled and burlap tree (choose a variety suited to your area)
- Shovel
- Scissors
- Pruners
- Mulch
- Root stimulator
Instructions
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How to Plant a Tree for Charity
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The best time to plant trees is in the spring before budding or in the fall after leaf drop. This allows trees to establish roots before the rain and heat stimulates growth. You can plant trees in the summer, but they'll need extra care, especially watering.
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Dig a hole deep enough to hold the root ball of the tree. Gently remove the soil on top of the root ball until you see the first roots, plant at that depth. In clay soils the hole should be 1 to 2 inches above this depth. It should be slightly deeper in sandy soil. The hole should be two times the diameter of the root ball, and the sides of the hole should slope outward. Roughen up the sides of the hole to allow the roots to penetrate the soil.
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3
Center and straighten the tree. Cut the string and remove the burlap and wire cage from the top of the tree. Fill around the tree with back fill. Lightly pack the soil down with your hands (not your shoes) until it's three-quarters of the way filled. Water until the soil is settled. Back fill the remainder of the hole.
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Form a mound of soil around the hole, creating a rim. Apply liquid root stimulator. Don't fertilize the tree any more until next year. Water 1 inch per week or more if it's dry. Mulch the newly planted tree with 2 to 3 inches of shredded bark to help conserve moisture.
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Trees need staking if they are 10 feet tall or if their trunks are greater than 2 inches in diameter. If the tree is in a windy area, staking is also necessary. Remove the stakes after the first year.
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Tips & Warnings
Locate all underground utilities before digging.
Remove any damaged branches or roots before planting.
Never carry or pick up a tree by the trunk; always carry it by the root ball. You will avoid damage to the fine feeder roots attached to the soil inside the root ball.
