How to Plant a Tree: The Trees Direct Guide Although tree planting is fairly straightforward, trees can often struggle to grow if planted poorly, so it is worth giving them the best possible start. In this guide we’ll be focusing on potted trees, for bare rooted trees head to our Planting Bare Root Trees Guide. Getting Started If you haven’t already, choosing the right tree carefully considering your growing conditions and space is an important first step in the tree planting process. If you need some help selecting the right tree for you our Tree Finder is a great tool or read our How to choose the right tree for your garden guide. The best time to plant is between Autumn and Spring although potted trees can be planted year round providing they are given adequate aftercare to help them settle in. It’s best to avoid planting in hot or dry weather. Before buying a tree, always check its eventual height and spread, and how well it responds to pruning, to make sure it won’t outgrow its space. What you’ll need; -Your chosen potted tree – Spade and fork -Bucket of water -Watering can / hose -Organic matter / Root grow (optional) –Mulch, such as chipped bark (optional) –Tree guard or spiral (optional) -Sturdy stake & buckle tie , mallet (optional) How to Plant Your Tree 1. Preparation Before planting, it is best to remove any weeds and grass from the site. If you’re planting into a lawn, strip away a circle of turf 1m (3 1/2 ft) in diameter. 2. Soak the root ball Give the pot a good soak in a bucket of water before removing the tree from its pot. Lift it out gently without touching the root, keeping as much soil intact around the tree. 3. Dig a hole Dig a hole about twice the width of the trees root ball and a bit deeper in depth. If the bottom of the hole is compacted, loosen up the soil with a fork and prick all around the sides to allow roots to penetrate comfortably. 4. Fertilising & Drainage The tree can be given an extra boost by putting some root grow , bone meal or a nourishing compost in the bottom of the hole. If the soil has bad drainage, rubble can be mixed in the hole to help with drainage. 5. Position the tree Being careful of the roots, place the tree in the centre of the hole ensuring that it is level. The point at which the roots meet the trunk of the tree should be level with the ground. Be sure to step back and make sure you’re happy with your trees positioning. 6. Refill the hole Refill the hole with soil mixed with compost, gently firm as you go. When the hole is full to about 5inches above the top of the root, firm down. The top of the roots must be completely covered. 7. Water & Mulch Water the tree to thoroughly. An option is to spread mulch or organic matter such as wood bark over the surface of the soil, in a layer 5–8cm (2–3in) thick. This will help to hold moisture in the soil and deter weeds. Leave a 10cm (4in) mulch-free gap around the base of the trunk. 8. Protecting & Staking Add a tree guard from the base of the trunk to protect your tree from wild life such as rabbits who may eat the bark. Small trees up to about 3ft do not need staking, but larger trees will need some support. For container grown trees hammer the stake at a 45 degree angle using a mallet and secure your tree with an expanding buckle tie. Aftercare Once your tree is planted water regularly, especially during dry spells for at least 1-2 years. If you have poor drainage however, be sure not to over water. Check ties regularly through the year, especially during autumn and winter when windy weather can loosen ties. Take care to relax the ties as the trunk expands to prevent restricting growth. Top up the mulch at least once a year, to help hold moisture in the soil. BACK TO ARTICLES
