Tree Selection & Planting

Trees play a vital role in enhancing the beauty of landscapes, improving air quality, and providing shade and habitat. The process of selecting the right tree and planting it properly is crucial to ensuring the health and longevity of the tree, as well as its ability to thrive in its environment.

This guide will provide a detailed step-by-step overview of tree selection and planting, offering tips and insights to help you make informed decisions for your landscape or garden.

Importance of Tree Selection

Choosing the right tree for the right location is a key factor in ensuring a tree’s health and longevity. Not all trees thrive in every climate, and some trees may have growth habits that are unsuitable for certain areas.

• Climate Considerations: One of the first things to consider when selecting a tree is your local climate. Different tree species are adapted to various climate conditions. For instance, a tree that thrives in a tropical climate may struggle to survive in a temperate region. Before selecting a tree, research the USDA Hardiness Zone of your area to find trees that are suitable for your specific climate conditions.
• Purpose of the Tree: Determine the primary reason you’re planting the tree. Is it for shade, ornamental purposes, fruit production, or wind protection? For example, fast-growing trees like oaks are often ideal for providing shade, while smaller, flowering trees such as dogwoods or magnolias are excellent for ornamental purposes. Fruit trees like apple or peach trees are also popular but require specific conditions to yield healthy fruit.
• Growth Habit: It’s also crucial to consider the growth habit of a tree. Some trees, like maples, have broad canopies and can grow quite large, requiring ample space to spread out. Others, such as columnar trees, grow more upright and are suited for tighter spaces. Make sure to choose a tree whose mature size and shape fit your space constraints.

Types of Trees to Consider

The type of tree you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Below are some common categories of trees and their typical uses in landscaping.

Deciduous Trees

These trees shed their leaves annually, providing vibrant color changes in the fall and letting in light during the winter months. Popular examples include oak, maple, and birch trees.

Evergreen Trees

Unlike deciduous trees, evergreens retain their leaves throughout the year, making them ideal for providing year-round privacy or acting as windbreaks. Examples include pine, spruce, and cedar trees

Fruit Trees

These trees not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also provide fresh fruit for consumption. Apple, pear, and cherry trees are some of the most common fruit-bearing trees planted in residential areas.

Ornamental Trees

These trees are planted primarily for their aesthetic value. They often have showy flowers, attractive foliage, or unique bark. Dogwood, redbud, and Japanese maple are great examples of ornamental trees.

Selecting a Healthy Tree

Once you’ve decided on the type of tree you’d like to plant, it’s crucial to select a healthy specimen to ensure the tree grows strong and lives a long life.

• Inspect the Roots: Whether you’re buying a tree in a container or with its roots wrapped in burlap (known as balled and burlapped), always inspect the root system. Healthy roots are essential for water and nutrient uptake. Avoid trees with roots that are circling the container (this is called being “root-bound”), as they can strangle the tree as it grows.
• Check the Trunk: The trunk of a healthy tree should be straight and free of wounds or scars. A damaged trunk can compromise the tree’s structure and make it more susceptible to diseases.
• Look at the Foliage: The leaves or needles of the tree should look healthy and vibrant. Wilted, yellowing, or sparse foliage could indicate underlying health problems.

Preparing the Planting Site

Before planting your tree, it’s important to prepare the site properly. This ensures the tree has the best chance of thriving in its new location.

• Soil Quality: Different trees require different types of soil. Some trees, like magnolias, prefer acidic soil, while others, like olives, need well-draining, alkaline soils. Testing your soil pH and amending it as necessary can help create optimal growing conditions.
• Sunlight: Most trees need full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) to thrive. However, some species, such as certain maples, can tolerate partial shade. Make sure to choose a spot that receives the appropriate amount of sunlight for your chosen tree.
• Drainage: Waterlogged soil can suffocate a tree’s roots, leading to poor growth or even death. If your site has poor drainage, consider amending the soil with compost or planting your tree in a raised bed.

The Best Time to Plant Trees

Timing is crucial when it comes to planting trees. Planting at the right time of year can minimize stress on the tree and help it establish its roots before facing extreme weather conditions.

• Fall Planting: In many regions, fall is considered the best time to plant trees. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall in autumn allow trees to establish their roots without the stress of hot summer weather. As long as the ground isn’t frozen, you can plant trees in the fall.
• Spring Planting: Spring is also a good time to plant trees, especially in colder regions where the ground is frozen in the fall. Plant trees as soon as the soil has thawed and is workable, giving the tree ample time to root before the hot summer months.

The Planting Process: Step-by-Step

Planting a tree correctly is essential for its long-term health. Follow these steps to ensure your tree gets off to a good start:

Digging the Hole

The hole should be about two to three times the width of the tree’s root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself. This allows the roots to spread easily without the tree settling too deep in the ground.

Positioning the Tree

Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring that the root flare (where the roots meet the trunk) is level with or slightly above the soil surface.

Backfilling the Hole

Use the soil you removed from the hole to backfill around the tree. Gently tamp down the soil as you go to eliminate air pockets, which can dry out roots.

Watering

Water the tree thoroughly after planting. This helps settle the soil and provides moisture to the roots. Continue to water the tree regularly for the first couple of years, especially during dry periods.

Mulching

Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weeds. Make sure the mulch is not touching the trunk, as this can lead to rot.

Caring for Newly Planted Trees

Proper care during the first few years of a tree’s life is critical to its survival and growth. Below are some tips to help your tree establish itself:

• Watering: Newly planted trees require regular watering, especially during dry spells. A deep, slow watering is best, as it encourages deep root growth.
• Staking: In windy areas, young trees may need staking to keep them upright while their roots establish. Use soft materials that won’t damage the bark, and remove the stakes after a year or two to avoid hindering the tree’s natural movement.
• Pruning: It’s important to prune your tree during its early years to encourage a strong structure. Remove any damaged or crossing branches, but avoid heavy pruning, as this can stress the tree.
• Fertilizing: If your soil is nutrient-deficient, you may need to fertilize your tree. However, avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth that the tree cannot support.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting Trees

Planting trees is a rewarding process, but there are several common mistakes that can compromise the health of the tree. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your tree thrives:

• Planting Too Deep: One of the most common mistakes is planting a tree too deep. This can cause the roots to suffocate and the tree to struggle or even die. Always ensure the root flare is visible above the soil line.
• Overwatering or Underwatering: Both overwatering and underwatering can harm a tree. Monitor soil moisture levels and adjust your watering schedule as needed.
• Neglecting to Mulch: Mulching is an important step that many people skip. Without mulch, the soil around the tree can dry out quickly, and weeds may compete with the tree for nutrients and water.

Conclusion

Selecting and planting the right tree can significantly enhance your landscape’s beauty, functionality, and ecological value. By considering factors like climate, soil, and growth habits, and following the proper planting and care techniques, you can ensure your tree thrives for years to come. Remember, a well-planted tree is an investment in the future, providing benefits that last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What factors should I consider when selecting a tree for my yard?
   When selecting a tree, consider your local climate, soil type, sunlight exposure, space available for growth, and the tree’s intended purpose (e.g., shade, ornamental, fruit-bearing).
2. How do I know which trees will thrive in my region?
   Research your USDA Hardiness Zone or local climate conditions to find trees that are best suited to your area. Consulting local nurseries or extension services can also provide valuable guidance.
3. What is the best time of year to plant trees?
   The ideal time to plant trees is in the fall or early spring, as this allows the tree to establish its roots before extreme weather conditions like summer heat or winter frost set in.
4. How big should the hole be when planting a tree?
   The hole should be 2 to 3 times wider than the tree’s root ball, but no deeper than the height of the root ball to prevent the tree from settling too deep in the soil.
5. How often should I water a newly planted tree?
   Newly planted trees should be watered deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during hot or dry periods.
6. Do I need to fertilize my tree after planting?
   Most trees do not require fertilization immediately after planting. However, if your soil is nutrient-deficient, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer after the first growing season.
7. What type of mulch should I use around my tree?
   Organic mulches such as wood chips, shredded bark, or compost are ideal. Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer around the tree, but avoid piling it directly against the trunk to prevent rot.
8. Should I stake my tree after planting?
   Staking is only necessary for trees planted in windy or exposed areas. Use soft ties and avoid staking too tightly, removing the stakes after a year to prevent restriction of growth.
9. How far should I plant a tree from my house or other structures?
   Large trees should be planted at least 15-20 feet from houses or other structures to prevent potential root damage and avoid branches growing too close to roofs or walls.
10. What should I do if my tree’s leaves turn yellow after planting?
    Yellowing leaves can indicate stress due to overwatering, underwatering, or transplant shock. Check soil moisture levels and adjust watering, and ensure the tree isn’t planted too deep.

Kristine Moore

Forestry Author

I'm Kristine Moore, a seasoned garden landscaping professional with over 30 years of experience. My extensive career has been dedicated to transforming outdoor spaces into stunning, sustainable landscapes. With a deep understanding of horticulture, design principles, and environmental stewardship, I have become a respected figure in the field, known for creating harmonious, visually appealing, and eco-friendly gardens. My commitment to excellence and continuous learning in landscaping trends and techniques has solidified my reputation as an expert in garden design and implementation.