Approximately 15.3 billion trees are chopped down every year despite their crucial role in sustaining life. They store large amounts of carbon, help cycle nutrients, and improve our air and water quality.
In addition, trees can improve the appearance of your yard and provide sufficient shade to reduce your home’s cooling cost.
The importance of planting trees is evident, and anyone who has a small plot of land can take action.
Before you decide to plant trees in your yard, it is best to learn how to do so correctly. As a result, your trees will live long and luscious lives.
This article will share some tips for planting trees and guide you every step of the way!
Choose a Suitable Tree
If you want to plant your own trees, you should start by doing some research. An excellent place to begin is learning which trees are native to your region since these species do better with your area’s soil and climate.
Another benefit of native species is that they require less care, water, pesticides, and fertilizer. You also will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting your community’s wildlife.
The best time to plant trees is in spring or fall, so they have a few months to adjust to their new home before harsh weather arrives. You will also find a better selection of trees at local nurseries during these seasons.
Decide Where to Plant Your Tree
After choosing your trees, you will need to decide where to plant them. Considering how large they will be once they are fully grown will give you an idea of how far apart to space them. Be cautious so as not to plant your trees too close to wires, fences, buildings, or property lines.
Another vital factor to consider is whether the tree needs full sun, partial sun, or shade.
Moreover, you should check with your community or homeowners association before planting any trees. There may be some regulations on the varieties you can grow and locations you can plant them.
Dig the Hole
Now it’s time to dig a hole for your tree! You should make sure that it is at least as deep as the container and twice the width.
Next, loosen the dirt at the bottom of the hole and on the sides. After, it would help if you got the inside of the hole wet. Doing this makes it easier for the tree’s roots to bury themselves in the ground.
Loosen the Roots
The next step is removing the tree from its container. To ensure that you don’t damage the tree, you can use a utility knife to cut the sides of the plastic pot.
Instead of immediately placing the tree in the ground, take a few seconds to loosen the roots. Inside pots, roots are forced to grow in a circular pattern. Thus, it is good to break up the roots and help them adjust to their new home in the ground.
Place the Tree and Add Backfill Soil
Now you can put the tree into the hole. The part of the tree where the trunk gets wider and the roots stem from should be just above the soil.
Ensure that the tree is level and isn’t leaning. If you have trouble keeping it upright, you can use some stakes to support it.
This step is especially vital if you live in an area that has frequent high winds. If you decide to use stakes, ensure that they don’t intersect with the tree’s roots.
Next, you’ll need to fill the hole with the soil you removed while digging. When the hole is about halfway full, you should water the tree. Then, finish filling the hole and lightly pack the soil around the tree to get rid of any air pockets.
Mulch the Area
Lastly, you should add a layer of mulch around the tree, which keeps in the moisture and helps cool the roots. A two-inch bed of mulch is enough to keep your tree healthy. Just be sure that the mulch isn’t touching the tree trunk.
If you’d like, you can add a decorative border around the tree using edging stones. This border not only looks beautiful but keeps the mulch where it belongs.
Water the Tree
In the weeks and months after planting your trees, you’ll need to make sure that they get plenty of water. Some trees take a year to fully adjust, so be sure to give your trees the extra attention they need.
You can water your trees by hand or use a drip irrigation system with a timer. You might want to go for the latter if you are forgetful.
Caring for Your Tree
Your young trees shouldn’t need much pruning unless they have dead branches. However, fruit trees do require some trimming to produce healthy fruit.
You should also avoid over-fertilizing your tree since it can burn the roots. It’s best to hold off until the second year of growth to add fertilizer.
If you want to give it an added boost during its first year, a natural supplement or slow-release nutrients are best.
If you encounter problems with your trees, you may need some professional help. Read here for more info.
Plant Trees and Reap the Benefits
There are numerous reasons to plant trees, whether you want to help the environment or increase the value of your home! Follow the tips in this article when choosing, planting, and caring for your new trees. If you do, you can be sure that your trees will be strong and healthy for decades to come!
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