When Leaves Are Falling, Raise a Tree

Outdoor landscaping plays a vital role in enhancing the home's beauty and value; yet, for many, professional landscaping can be a pricey proposition. The good news is that there is a wide variety of landscaping projects that homeowners can do themselves. One of those projects is planting a tree—and early fall is a good time to do it—there is a lot less drought-stress placed on these young plants.

Choosing the Right Tree

Choosing a correct tree for your needs is of obvious importance. Will the tree grow to be bigger than the area in which it is to be planted? Will it interfere with your dwelling? Are there power lines over the tree that it could interfere with? Will it shade out other sun-loving plants or grasses below it? It seems simple, but you would be amazed at how many beautiful trees are planted, only to be hacked years later by the electric company. Consult with your local nursery and find a tree that makes sense for your landscape.

Make Sure the Roots are Right

One of the easiest and most satisfying landscape projects is planting a tree. Most trees have either bare root, or balled and burlapped root systems. The root system will determine the proper procedures for planting.

Bare root trees are always dormant and their roots lack soil of any kind. When purchasing or receiving a bare root tree, be sure to inspect the root system; it must be kept moist until ready to plant. Prune any damaged, rotten or discolored roots.

Balled and Burlapped Beautification

When planting balled and burlapped trees, dig the hole only to the depth of the ball height. The sides of the hole should be made rough by chopping it with a spade, or even an ax, because a smooth-sided hole can lead to girdling or encircling roots that can damage or kill the tree in later years. The width of the hole should measure 24 inches greater than the ball diameter. Again, build a cone of soil in the bottom of the hole, spread the roots out over the cone, and fill the hole halfway with a soil mix for trees, shrubs and ornamentals. Then alternately add soil and water until the hole is completely filled and has no air pockets.

Bare Root Beginnings

When getting ready to plant a bare root tree, dig the hole to a size that will accommodate the roots without bending, pruning or crowding them. Build a cone of soil in the bottom of the hole, spread the roots out over the cone, and fill the hole halfway with soil that has been mixed for trees, shrubs and ornamentals which helps condition the soil for improved aeration and moisture retention. Next, water the soil to eliminate air pockets, fill the hole completely, water again, and build a heap of soil around the hole.

What’s at Stake

Be sure to stake the tree to prevent roots from being uprooted by strong winds. Manufacturers make staking kits with a variety of guying materials. Or assemble a staking kit from items found at your local hardware store. If wire is the chosen guying material, place it through tubing or old hose to protect the trunk of the young tree. After 3 to 6 months the stakes may be removed.

Mulch Matters

To provide moisture retention, cover the soil with a mulch of your choice. Form a ring about 2 to 3 feet around the new planting, leaving a space around the trunk. Many times rodents can chew on young, soft saplings under that layer of mulch. It can also lead to root girdling.
Years and Years of Shade and Enjoyment
Planting a tree is easy and the rewards are aplenty. Whether their purpose is shade, fruits, blossoms, interesting foliage or bark—trees offer some tremendous benefits—and in some cases can add up to ten percent to the value of your home. Consider planting a tree this fall for seasons to come.

See you soon with more helpful tips from GardenPower and Crader Distributing!

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