Are you looking to plant a tree in your yard?
With cities in the United States losing 36 million trees a year, planting a tree becomes more urgent than ever.
Tree planting looks simple, but several factors affect the success of your efforts. Tree planting mistakes can also prevent them from flourishing.
Look no further than our guide to correct your tree planing efforts. Read on and learn five common tree planting errors and how to avoid them.
1. Selecting the Wrong Tree
Selecting the wrong types of trees to plant is a quick way of putting your efforts to waste. Buying a tree from a nursery does not always guarantee the tree is in optimal condition.
To avoid this, identify the signs of a healthy tree. Check for root flare exposure and whether it has a single trunk or a central leader. The tree trunk should not have mechanical wounds from tree pruning.
The branches should feature proper spacing, while the leaves should have no insect damage or signs of fungus.
2. Planting at the Wrong Site
Successful tree planting also involves planting on the recommended site. A lot of homeowners plant trees without understanding their growing space. When the tree needs maximum sun exposure, avoid placing it under another tree’s shade.
If a large building is blocking the sunlight, avoid planting on its north side. When your tree needs a lot of water, avoid planting it on a slope.
3. The Hole is Too Small
Digging a hole too small for your tree is another common mistake. It happens in new home construction sites with soil compaction, keeping the roots from growing.
Small holes also serve as a poor anchor for growth. The roots will not grow, leaving the tree more vulnerable to uprooting during storms. Dig a shallow hole three times wider than the root ball to prevent this issue.
4. Planting Too Deep
Planting too deep impedes tree growth because of a lack of oxygen. It also causes leaf yellowing, defoliation, and tree death in some cases.
Avoid these long-term effects by planting with the root flare 2 inches above the ground. Expose the root flare to about 3 inches from the tree’s base to prevent insects, fungus, and decay.
5. Improper Watering
Insufficient watering will dry out the tree faster during summer. Proper tree care involves watering deep and slow. Increase watering during summer and mind the type of soil you use.
Sandy soil requires shorter intervals, while clay soil needs longer watering. Apart from avoiding these tree planting mistakes, never forget to practice tree pruning to ensure lush and robust results.
Let’s Work on Those Tree Planting Mistakes
Now you’re aware of common tree planting errors, growing a tree becomes easier. In case you committed any of these tree planting mistakes, we can help in correcting them.
We offer professional tree services like tree trimming, tree removal, and arborist consulting. Connect with us today to improve your yard.
