If you’re here, you probably don’t need another lesson on why planting trees is a great way to impact the environment positively. However, it’s worth reiterating that trees:
- Recycle and reduce your carbon footprint.
- Clean the air.
- Improve the curb appeal of your home.
- Contribute to a drop in energy costs by providing shade for your home during summer and a buffer to the winter winds.
Look, we could go on and on. But, let’s focus on how to get a tree up in your garden.
When is the Best Season to Plant a Tree?
Autumn is a great time to plant tree seedlings. Here’s why…
Fall is not only the best time to dig up the soil, but the cool temperature lets the tree’s root systems grow properly before warm weather comes around again. The blazing hot temperatures experienced during summer can stifle the growth of a new plant. This can only get worse if there isn’t enough rain to cool the soil.
What Tools do You Need?
When planting trees, the right tools can make the difference between a stunted tree and one that attains full foliage. You’ll need to get the following at the nearest hardware shop or online:
- Irrigation tools such as water pumps, water pressure regulators, garden hoses, and button drippers
- Garden trowels, forks, and shovels
- A wheelbarrow
- Gardening gloves
- Scissors and snips
Decide on the Best Tree for Your Garden
You’ll need to make an informed choice. You have to consider factors such as:
- Do you want a tree that produces fruits or flowers?
- Are you looking for one to act as shade?
- Are you comfortable with your tree acting as a gathering point for birds and butterflies?
- Is there any tree at the nearby park you like and want a similar one at home?
- Are you opposed to sweeping leaves all fall and wouldn’t mind a barren tree in your garden all winter?
Spend some time reading up on different species of trees before you come to a final decision. Finally, if you aren’t planting it immediately after purchase for any reason, buy trees wrapped in burlap over those sold as ‘bare-root trees.’ The roots dry out if you don’t get the seedling into the ground as soon as possible.
How to Plant the Tree Seedling
Now, it’s time to plant your tree. Here’s how to get it done in no time:
- Dig a hole that’s no deeper than the root ball but is about three times wide the root ball’s size with the garden shovel.
- Use the fork or trowel to break up the hole’s walls and base, creating a ridge of soil in the middle of the hole.
- If you bought seedling wrapped in burlap, remove and discard the twine used to cover it.
- Use the garden shovel to gingerly drop the tree on top of the ridge of soil in the middle.
- Gently spread the roots out.
- Ensure the crown of the roots is level with the ground; your shovel can act as a makeshift plank ruler.
- Cover the hole.
- Straighten the tree with a stake. Ensure the stake is tied loosely to prevent any injuries to the trunk.
- Create a mound of soil around the tree to help with settling in and water retention.
How to Maintain Your Tree Seedling
To give your tree seedling a greater chance of survival, make sure to do the following:
- Water it once a week during its first season.
- During a rain drought, water it at least three times a week.
- Most trees don’t need any form of fertilizer until after three years, so check the package’s instructions before you apply fertilizer.
Happy Planting!
