West Chester Certified Arborist: The Right Way to Plant Trees
Planting a tree on your property is one of the best things you can do to improve your home’s resale value and curb appeal while enhancing the environment. However, the process involves more than dropping the new plant into a hole to ensure a healthy, thriving tree that lasts for generations. The best time to plant a tree is early spring, so Stein Tree Service’s certified arborist in West Chester, PA explains the right way to plant your new tree.
Tips for Planting New Trees
The right way to plant trees sounds simple on paper, but both you and arborists have to consider plenty of factors to ensure the proper conditions before and during planting. Before you start digging in your yard and planting the tree saplings, here are a few tips to help your planting go smoothly to ensure optimal tree growth.
Before You Dig
The key to the long-term health of your new tree is proper planting and care. Before you even dig a hole, you need to make sure the area is suitable for the tree you are considering. Make sure to consider the height and diameter of the mature tree’s canopy and root system. The taller your tree will be when fully mature, the farther away you should plant from your house.
Next, you need to ensure that the type of soil and pH levels on your property are compatible with the type of tree. You may need to correct the soil accordingly by adding nutrients. A certified arborist can test your soil and advise you if you need to make adjustments.
Whether you are planting the tree personally or hiring a trained professional, you should clearly mark any underground utilities, to avoid hitting the lines with your shovel and to keep the roots from interfering. Call 811 a few days before your planned dig to have someone come out and mark the locations in your area.
When You Plant
Improperly planting your trees can cause several problems. One common issue is a root-bound tree. To prevent this problem:
- Inspect the root ball before buying and avoid those with tight root spirals.
- Gently remove unhealthy roots or girdling roots (plant roots growing around the trunk or near the soil surface, which can choke the tree by inhibiting nutrients from reaching the rest of the tree).
- Aim for a tree with a root ball of 10” to 12″ diameter per every one inch of trunk diameter.
Ensure that the hole is deep enough, and allow a few inches of loosened dirt under the root ball. The soil level should come to the top of the first level of main lateral roots. Pack the soil around the base of the tree and water well (watering can help eliminate air pockets, which inhibit root growth and water movement.) Place a generous layer of mulch around the tree, with a 1-inch depth at the base of the trunk, gaining depth outwardly up to 4 inches.
