Transform Your Landscape: What Questions to Ask Before Planting Trees
by: John Campanini, Technical Director, RITree
Trees properly cared for in a nursery or garden center and given the proper care during transport are plantable almost anytime. Fall is an excellent time to plant trees, especially after leaf drop (between September 15 and November 1). Many nurseries and garden centers, in fact, hold end-of-season sales, so you can often find a wider variety of plants at a better price. So, you may get a shopping advantage.
Fall planting offers some significant advantages over spring planting. Soil and weather conditions, for example, allow trees to develop strong root systems before the ground freezes. Trees planted in the fall also experience less stress, fewer pests, and fewer diseases. Plus, they require less water. Fall generally has more consistent rainfall and cooler temperatures, which help keep soil moisture from evaporating too quickly.
Which is the Right Tree?
Selecting and planting a tree is an investment in your property’s future. But first, you must select the right tree for the given area and then plant it properly. Below is the seven-step guide to doing that:
- Examine the soil
Planting a tree in healthy soil is critical. You want soil that is rich in nutrients and that retains moisture. Avoid areas with overly wet soil or poor drainage. Tilling the soil helps break up any hardpan beneath the surface. Soil texture is another important factor. You need soil with an appropriate pH level. Another key aspect is the soil’s fertility. Make sure it has the right balance of nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
You can send soil samples for testing to the Cooperative Extension, University of Rhode Island for a detailed analysis. Tel: 401-874-2900.
- Analyze the existing conditions
The weather plays a key role in tree planting. Are there severe conditions that could hinder growth? Does the location receive full sun (6+ hours), partial sun (2-4 hours), or shade? What type of soil do you have? Is it sandy, loamy, or heavy clay? Does it drain properly, or does it retain standing water? Also, think about the tree’s mature size and canopy spread. Ensure there are no power lines above that could interfere with the tree as it grows, and avoid planting near buildings, sidewalks, or other structures. Additionally, consider the root system, which can spread as wide as the canopy.
- Choose a suitable species
Research trees that grow well in your area. Check your USDA Plant Hardiness Zone and find species suited for your climate. Native trees are usually the best choice since they are already adapted to local weather and pests. Avoid invasive tree species that could damage the ecosystem. Red maple, sugar maple, northern red oak, American beech, Eastern white pine, and eastern hemlock are good options for planting in New England.
- Purchase a healthy tree.
When you’re at the nursery, examine the tree carefully. Check the root ball if possible. Avoid balls with roots circling the container, as they can eventually “girdle” or strangle the tree. Make sure the trunk is straight and free of wounds, cankers, or insect damage. Examine the branches. They should be well-spaced and have a strong, wide angle of attachment to the trunk. The tree should also have a single, central leader (main stem).
- Dig the right-sized hole
This is a critical step. Dig the hole no deeper than the tree’s root ball and 2-3 timesas wide. Digging a shallow, wide hole encourages the roots to grow into the soil. Plant a little high to allow for settling. Leave the bottom undisturbed: You want it firm and undisturbed.
- Prepare the tree for planting
Gently remove the tree from its container or unwrap the burlap and wire cage if it’s a balled and burlapped tree. Locate the “root flare” where the trunk widens as it meets the roots. This flare should be at or slightly above the soil line when the tree is planted. Carefully loosen any circling roots. You may need to use your fingers or a knife to make a few shallow vertical cuts to encourage the roots to grow outwards.
7. Plant and mulch the tree
Place the tree in the center of the hole. Ensure it is straight from all angles. Backfill the hole with the same soil you removed. Don’t add soil amendments, compost, or fertilizer; this helps the tree adapt to the native soil. Gently firm the soil to remove air pockets. Avoid stomping or compacting it.
Finally, water the tree thoroughly to help the soil settle. Then, apply a 2–4-inch layer of organic mulch in a “donut” shape around the tree. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pest issues. The mulch helps the tree retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and prevent weeds.
The Rhode Island Tree Council teaches proper plant techniques in its Tree Stewards’ courses, given in the spring and fall. For more information, contact RITree at (401) 764-5885, or go to RITree’s website (www.ritree.org).