What are the 8 steps to the Best Tree Planting Method?

To assist your tree in quickly establishing itself in its new location, carefully follow these 8 steps:

1. Make sure the trunk flare is visible

The trunk flare is the area at the base of the tree where the trunk extends. After the tree is planted, make sure the trunk flare is visible. If the flare is still not visible, remove additional soil before planting.

2. Wide planting hole is vital

Dig a wide, shallow planting hole. Holes should be twice as wide as the root ball but only half as deep. It does not change whether they are olive trees or oak trees or any fast growing trees.

3. To make the wire basket smaller  

If the root ball and trunk are wrapped, remove any covering to allow root development. Remove the wiring basket or cut off one or two rings to make it more reduced and less likely to block future root growth. Look for circular roots in the tree root ball and straighten, cut, or eliminate them. If required, expose the trunk flare.

4. Grows in the top 12 inches (30 cm) of the soil

Cut the tree to the desired height. The root ball, not the trunk, should be used to lower the tree into the hole. Most trees' roots develop in the top 12 inches (30 cm) of the soil. It's possible that planting a tree too deeply would harm it. Straighten the tree in the hole. Before you fill the hole, make sure the tree is straight by having someone look at it from several angles.

5. Remove the stakes after the first year of growth

Three stakes or underground systems give the best support if staking is required. Although studies have shown that trees with no stakes produce stronger trunks and roots, stakes may be necessary when planting bare root stock or on windy areas. After the first year of growth, remove the stakes.

6. Just after plants have been planted the planting tree

Lastly, softly but firmly fill the hole. Stabilize the root ball by packing soil around the base. To remove air pockets, firmly fill the opening. Watering periodically while backfilling will help to decrease air gaps even more. Fertilize only after the plants have been planted.

7. A mulch-free zone 1–2 inch (2.5–5 cm) wide

Mulch all around tree's base. Apply a 2–3 inch (5–7.5 cm) layer of mulch to the trunk, but don't pack too much against it. A 1–2 inch (2.5–5 cm) broad mulch-free region at the base of the tree will decrease moist bark and prevent rot.

8. With follow-up care

Support with follow-up care. Water the soil at least once a week if it doesn't rain, and more frequently if it's hot and windy. Continue until mid-fall, then taper off as the weather cools and less regular watering is required. Whether planting trees in winter or not.

Other important things to consider about: 

• Minor cutting of branches damaged during the planting procedure may be necessary as a follow-up.

• After planting, prune only if necessary. 

• If trunk wrapping is required, use biodegradable materials and wrap from the bottom. 

• Delay remedial pruning until after a complete season of growth.

Important Note:

Before you start excavating for plant a tree, make sure you've discovered any underground services in your planting zone for planting trees. The national call-before-you-dig phone number in the United States is 811. Anyone planning to dig should dial 811 or go to the website of their state's 811 center (https://call811.com).