CHOOSING THE RIGHT TREE
Starting a tree off right is very important for its long-term health. Know your garden conditions, what is the ideal species and select a good specimen. Minor issues with the tree can generally be fixed at the time of planting, however major issues can be hard to fix - so do your due diligence when selecting a tree for your landscape. Here are several things to consider prior to purchasing and planting a new tree.
1. Potential locations in your yard:
a. Consider how much sun or shade your yard gets.
i. For a tree to develop a nice symmetrical shape it needs full sun.
ii. Too much shade can result in a lopsided tree.
b. Soil moisture level: Examine how dry or wet the soil is where you are considering a new tree/
i. Some native trees can be drought tolerant while other species may need a lot of water or be “wet footed” and are not bothered by some excess watering.
ii. To determine wet or dryness of your chosen location dig a test hole to see what is below the surface. Fill the hole with water and see how soon or how long it takes for the water to drain out … if it does.
c. Measure available space: Make sure there is enough space for the tree when mature.
2. Identify your regions native tree species:
a. Join or link to your local native plant communities or extension office.
b. Visit near by botanical gardens or arboretums to see mature sized trees.
c. Browse nurseries and garden centers to see what is available and new
d. A tree that grows near your home or local will most likely be successful
e. Understand that each tree on your wish list needs to meet its optimal conditions.
i. Soil – texture, PH level etc.
ii. Moisture
iii. Light
iv. Altitude
v. Tolerance – salt, wind, drought etc.
vi. Mature height and spread
vii. Maintenance issues
viii. Select trees that only grow in your local area or zone
f. Purchase trees during the optimal growing season for the variety and region.
3. Choose a healthy well shaped specimen:
a. Carefully examine the trees foliage for damage, unhealthy leaves or signs of distress
b. Check for wounds to the trunk or a lot of dead branches.
c. Inspect the top of the root ball for excess soil and remove
d. Container trees should be removed from container and inspected for root girdling or circling roots.
Popular Native trees used in Ohio/Kentucky Landscapes:
Tupelo – Nyssa Sylvatica Dogwood - Cornus Florida
Sweetgum – Liquidambar styraciflua River Birch – Betula Nigra
American Smoke Tree – Cotinus obovatus Northern Red Oak – Quercus Rubra
Eastern Redbud - Cercis canadensis Sweetbay Magnolia – Magnolia Virginia
Fringe Tree – Chionanthus Virginicus Serviceberry - Amelanchier x grandiflora
PREPARING TO PLANT YOUR NEW TREE
Before planting your new tree it is important to properly prepare the planting area/hole and fix any issues with the root ball to prevent problems later on. Before planting do some research or checkout Part 1 of our Landscape Tree Series.
Some Guidelines and requirements:
1. Water the root ball thoroughly prior to planting – either the day of or the day before.
a. Container trees should be freed from their containers.
b. Do not remove burlap from balled and burlapped trees unless you are certain the soil will stay intact upon installation.
2. Prepare the planting hole:
a. Dig to a depth slightly less than the height of the root ball. The root flare should be above ground level when planted
b. Dig the hole 3-4xs wider than the root ball, with straight sides that have been scarified with a shovel.
c. Do not put a layer of gravel in the bottom for drainage.
3. Score thin vertical channels every 10-12” around the root ball – mostly done with container plants.
4. Move the tree onto a tarp and gently spray away excess soil from around the roots (balled and burlap – leave in hole). Tease apart roots to eliminate compacted oil and aid in the roots ability to grow in the native soil.
5. Address any other issues and then plant right away.
KEEP YOUR TREE GROWING
Proper tree care is essential for the prolong health & growth of your new tree – for at least 2 years.
1. Watering
a. In dry weather you should water your tree every week. Do not let the soil get squishy or swampy or to collect surface water.
b. Monitor signs of stress, watering, no water, wind and disease/insects.
2. Disease and Pests - Vary according to different tree types and species.
Some general symptoms to look out for:
a. Leaf discoloration
b. Dropping leaves
c. Sticky or chewed on leaves or stems
d. Holes in the bark of the trunk or leaves
e. Mushrooms
f. Signs of animals.
3. Staking
Generally staking is not required but occasionally trees need a little bit of support to counter wind or soil conditions. Do Not leave cords or wiring wrapped around the tree trunk once the tree has been established – sme goes for trunk protectors or shipping material wrapped around the trunk generally at a time of delivery.
4. Pruning - How and when to prune your tree depends on the following:
a. Variety
b. Time of the year
c. Tree shape goals
Remove and dead or broken branches or those obviously crossing. Do not make cuts flush with the trunk.
Its best to let the tree establish for a year or so before any major structural pruning occur.
5. Contact WLDflora Landscape, your local nursery or certified arborist if you have any further questions.