Planting Tips: Trees & Shrubs

The key to giving your new tree or shrub a successful start is through proper planting techniques. Trees and shrubs are primarily available as containerized or balled and burlapped specimens.

Containerized Plants

These plants are sold in plastic or fiber containers. Most have been grown in the container and can have extensive root systems.

Dig the planting hole so that it is at least 12" wider than the root ball diameter and deep enough so that the top of the root ball is at or slightly above the surrounding soil surface. Loosen compacted soil in the bottom of the hole with a spade or shovel. Remove the container before planting. If the container doesn't slip off easily., it may be necessary to cut down the sides of the container and pry it off.

If the roots are densely matted, use a sharp knife to slice the outside of the root mass vertically in a few places to help separate the roots. Remove girdling roots which are large roots growing across or around other roots near where the root and stem meet.

Place the plant in the center of the hole and backfill with a mixture of 1 part excavated soil and 1 part soil amendment such as peat moss, black topsoil, compost, or rotted manure. Gently firm backfill around root ball to remove large air pockets. Form a 4" high saucer around the planting area and water thoroughly. Using a water soluble fertilizer solution at planting is a safe and beneficial way to help your new plant get a good start.

Balled and Burlapped

These trees and shrubs have been dug with root balls intact and wrapped with burlap. Some larger trees come in wire baskets. Nautral burlap is biodegradable and doesn't need to be removed prior to planting. Synthetic burlap will not degrade and must be removed prior to planting. All twine or rope should be removed to avoid girdling the trunk. Bend or cut the upper rows of wire baskets so they don't pose a hazard to people or lawn equipment.

Dig the planting hole 2 times wider than the root ball diameter and only as deep as the root ball. Poorly drained or compacted soils require planting holes 3 times the root ball diameter. Set plants no shallower than 3-5" of the root ball higher than the original soil level.

After placing the plant into the center of the hole, pull the burlap back from the top of the ball to allow easy water penetration into the soil ball. Backfill with the same soil that came out of the hole. Break up large clods with a rake or spade. Root balls set shallow should be covered with 1-2" of soil. Gently firm around root ball. Form a saucer 4" high around the perimeter of the planting hole and water slowly and thoroughly. Using a water soluble fertilizer solution at this initial watering is safe and beneficial to plant growth. Additional soil may need to be added if settling occurs.

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