Tree Planting

Winter is the perfect time to plant a tree.  While the garden is down to its bare bones, take a look around and find a good space where you can be sure a mature tree won’t interfere with power lines, rooftops, or pavement. 

Most trees in the nurseries this time of year are nothing more than sticks; ask nursery staff to show you pictures so you’ll have an idea of what the mature tree will look like.  There’s no need to spend the extra money on a larger tree; a smaller root system will probably adapt to your garden soil and catch up quickly.

When you get your tree home, dig a hole that is large enough that the container can fit into it comfortably.  Gently pull the tree’s roots from the container and set carefully in the hole, trying not to disturb the roots.  Fill in with a mixture of two-thirds native soil and one-third compost like our Happy Frog soil conditioner.  Add a little Peace of Mind Starter according to package directions, but remember, there’s no need to overfeed transplanted trees.

To stake or not to stake?  Don’t stake a young tree unless high winds threaten to knock the sapling over.  Otherwise, the tree will be healthier if it’s allowed to grow on its own. Always release a tree from its stakes after the first year.

Make sure the tree is watered, but don’t let water or wet mulch pile up around the trunk—it needs to breathe!