How to Plant a Tree

Early spring is the best time to plant trees and shrubs. It’s good for several reasons. The selection at the garden centers and nurseries is best. The plant specimens are newly dug and haven’t been stressed by being in the sun with just a root ball all spring, and the climate in the Midwest and Northeast generally is cool and rainy–ideal for newly-planted trees.

Here are some tips to successful tree planting:

1. Dig the hole for the tree around three times the size of the root ball

2. Plant the tree at the same depth as it was originally grown

3. Choose the proper site for the tree. Not all trees thrive in full sun. One example is the Dogwood, which prefers to be an understory tree. Also avoid planting trees right up against the house. Allow room for growth

4. Add a little compost to the tree hole before planting the tree

5. Water copiously and then water again–about one gallon for every 6″ of tree height

(photo credit: stock xchng)