How to plant a tree
Planting a tree is reasonably straightforward, depening upon the size of the tree, but there are some really important things to get right. The most important thing, and most common error, is getting the planting depth correct. The next most common reason for trees that struggle or die, is a lack of watering in the days, weeks, months and initial years after planting. Correct staking is important too, and remembering to adjust stakes in the early years and then remove them after three years. If in doubt, speak to a garden designer, landscape gardener or horticultural consultant who can explain about why these factors are so important.
Trees should be planted in a square hole, and if you are needing to dig a hole deeper than 30cm, then be sure to separate the subsoil and topsoil, and re-fill them in the same order. The all important depth of planting is easy to get right - the flare of the tree base should be visible once the tree is planted, and if in doubt, you are better off planting too shallow than too deep. Don’t use compost in the planting hole, we want the tree’s routes to go searching for nutrients and thereby create a strong anchoring system.
Trees should be planted with between one and four stakes around them, depending upon the size of the tree, and each stake should be attached to the tree using hessian strapping. Diagonal staking and post+bar staking is no longer recommended (as per best practice guidelines from the Arboricultural Association), as we need the young tree to flex and sway in the wind in order to develop a strong root system.
Once the tree is planted and staked, a neat tree circle must be created, normally around one metre in diameter, around teh base of the tree. This should be muclhed with compost bark, and kept weed-free for the first three years of the tree’s life. The stakes and straps should be checked twice a year in spring and sutumn, and adjusted if necessary. New trees should be well-watered for the first few months of their life, and then monthly between April and September for three years - and watering should be deep. For larger trees you should plant them with a watering hose wrapped around the rootball for this purpose.
When planting potted trees, ensure you tease away the roots from the rootball. When planting rootballed trees, ensure the metal ring around the base of the trunk is cut, but leave the rest of the burlap and wiring on.
If in doubt, and always for larger jobs, speak to a garden designers, landscape gardeners or landscape consultants about your tree planting requirements. Tom Angel is based in Glasgow and specialises in supplying and planting trees of any size.
To discuss garden design or landscape consultancy, give Tom a call on 0141 432 1141 or email on tom@tomangel.co.uk