The Art of Planting and Transplanting Trees

Selecting the Right Tree for Your Space

Before choosing a tree for your landscape, it's vital to consider its potential size at maturity. Overcrowding can hinder growth and diminish the beauty of trees, especially when they are intended to be showcased individually. While nursery catalogs are tempting, careful selection is necessary to ensure that each tree has enough room to thrive.

Young Trees vs. Mature Trees: What to Plant?

Generally, planting young trees is the most cost-effective and simplest approach. However, there are circumstances where a mature tree might be necessary, such as for immediate shade or privacy. Despite the higher cost and complexity of planting a mature tree, the investment can be justified by the years saved in growth.

Timing and Techniques for Planting Trees

The optimal times for tree planting are early spring or late fall/winter. While modern wilt-proof sprays allow for planting during full leaf, this method is riskier and more expensive. For trees over 6 feet tall, using a burlapped root ball can minimize transplant shock.

Soil Preparation and Planting Steps

Proper soil preparation is crucial. Dig a hole twice as deep and at least a foot wider than the root spread. Enhance the bottom of the hole with organic materials like peat, leaf mold, or loam, but use manure sparingly to avoid root burn. If you encounter poor subsoil, replace it with fertile soil or garden humus.

For seedlings without a burlapped root ball, "heeling in" in a temporary bed can protect them until planting. Puddling, or giving the roots a mud bath, shields them from air exposure and eliminates air pockets after planting. When planting, ensure the tree is at the same depth as it was previously and water thoroughly to settle the soil.

Planting Balled-and-Burlapped Trees

Balled-and-burlapped trees come with a soil ball containing their established root system. To plant, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and set the tree slightly lower than its nursery height. Water the hole before planting if the soil is dry. The burlap will decompose naturally, so plant the tree with it.

Post-Planting Care

After planting, pruning back the branches by at least one-third is recommended. For large trees, bracing with wire ropes is necessary to prevent wind damage. Regular cultivation and mulching help maintain soil moisture and prevent weed competition.

Uncommon Insights into Tree Planting

While the basics of tree planting are widely known, there are some lesser-discussed aspects that can significantly impact the success of the endeavor:

• Tree Planting and Urban Heat Islands: According to the EPA, strategically planting trees in urban areas can reduce the urban heat island effect by providing shade and releasing moisture into the air through a process called transpiration. EPA

• Carbon Sequestration: Trees are natural carbon sinks, and the right tree planted in the right place can sequester up to 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, as reported by the Arbor Day Foundation. Arbor Day Foundation

• Biodiversity and Native Species: Planting native trees can enhance local biodiversity, providing habitat and food sources for native wildlife. The National Wildlife Federation highlights the importance of native plants in supporting local ecosystems. National Wildlife Federation

By considering these factors and following the detailed steps outlined above, you can ensure that your tree planting or transplanting efforts are successful, contributing to a greener environment and a more sustainable future.