How to Safely Transport Trees
- Handle trees gently during transport.
- Protect the roots, trunk, and leaves from damage—especially from strong winds.
Never lift a tree by the trunk. Always lift from beneath the root ball using proper equipment.
Inspect Before You Plant
- Check how the tree was grown at the nursery.
- Remove plastic containers or synthetic wraps from the root ball—they don’t break down in soil.
- Take off all rope and twine (jute or nylon) to prevent girdling (cutting into the bark as the tree grows).
Dealing with Container Grown Trees
- Plastic containers must be removed.
- For fiber pots, break off the top or remove the pot entirely.
- Some fiber pots are coated to last longer, but this slows root growth underground.
- If roots are circling the outside of the root ball, cut through them in a few spots to prevent girdling.
- Choose trees grown in containers with vertical ribs or copper treatments to reduce circling roots.
Digging the Right Hole
Depth Matters
- Dig a hole no deeper than the root ball.
- In poorly drained soils, dig 1–2 inches shallower than the root ball and cover the exposed top with mulch.
Width of the Hole
- Make holes 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball. This encourages roots to spread out horizontally.
If using machines like augers or backhoes, roughen the sides of the hole to avoid glazing (hard, smooth surfaces that block root growth).
Managing Water Effectively
- Build a 4–6 inch high earthen berm around the edge of the planting hole (the drip zone).
- This creates a basin to collect water and allow it to soak in slowly.
- Don’t put loose soil under the root ball—it will settle over time and sink the tree.
Backfilling and Mulching
- Backfill with original, unamended soil—don’t add compost or organic material just to the planting hole.
- To avoid air pockets:
- Fill halfway with soil, water thoroughly,
- Then finish filling and water again.
- Cover the top of the root ball with mulch, but don’t pile mulch against the trunk.
How to Fertilize a Newly Planted Tree
- Only use slow-release granular fertilizer when:
- A soil test shows a need for phosphorus or potassium, or
- You want to add nitrogen safely.
- Avoid fast-release fertilizers—they can dry out the roots and harm the tree.
