Greenery around the house improves air quality, ensures shade and privacy and enhances the visual appeal. If you have a spacious garden in your home, you can plant a variety of trees. Knowing the right way to plant a tree is essential so that the tree matures to its full size and provides maximum benefits.
See also: How to plant flowers?
The right time to plant
Usually, trees and shrubs can be planted at any time of the year. However, early spring and before summer provide the ideal weather conditions.
The right tree type
Select the species best suited for your climate. Consider the full-grown size of the tree as per space. Decide between a shade tree, an evergreen tree, a fruit tree or another type of tree. It is essential to consider the full height of the tree, the way it will mature over time and whether it will attract birds, butterflies or other wildlife. If
the purpose of the tree is ornamental, you can choose a slow-growing tree. A fast-growing tree is ideal for privacy and shade. Opt for a small tree to decorate the entrance.
Identify the planting location
Plant a tree in a flat area in your garden. This will provide plenty of space for the tree to grow. Do not plant it close to the roof or the foundation.
There should not be any structure, powerlines or utilities near the area. Find out the local laws and check with the local authorities before you plant a tree.
Study the sun’s movement to find an area that receives adequate sunlight. If there are any trees, shrubs or plants in the area, check if they can be moved. An ideal location should receive a minimum of six hours of sunlight.
Water and modify the soil
Moisten the soil, which makes it easier to turn the soil and lowers root stress. If required, modify the soil with compost or organic matter about 1-2 inches deep. Sandy and fast-draining soil can be mixed with peat moss to help the soil absorb water quickly.
Dig and prepare the holes
Keep your gardening tools ready, including gardening gloves and a tarp or wheelbarrow to collect the soil and avoid damaging the surrounding grass. Measure the tree’s root ball. Dig a hole thrice the diameter of the root ball. The dirt around the roots must be loose, which will help the roots to thrive. In case the dirt around the roots is compact, use a shovel to loosen the surrounding soil.
If the ground has a high clay content, break up any glazing with a garden fork. This will prevent excess water absorption. The ring around the outer edges of the tree hole must be slightly deeper. There should be a higher ridge of compacted soil in the centre.
Dig up the tree hole to the same depth as the root ball. The lateral roots should be 1-2 inches below the soil’s surface after planting. The beginning of the tree trunk must be level with the ground.
Prepare the tree
The preparation of a tree before planting will depend on the species. Trees are grown in pots or planted as bare root trees, which can easily be removed from containers and planted directly. If you are unable to take out the plant, use a sharp knife to cut off the container. In the case of burlapped trees (where the roots are covered by soil and tied), roots are removed from the native soil and held together by the material.
Plant the tree
Gently hold the tree by the root ball and place it into the hole using a shovel. With a shovel’s handle, check if the crown of the root ball is level with the adjoining ground. If it is below the level, remove the tree and add more soil. If it is above the level, remove excess soil. Stakes can be tied to young trees to provide support, which can be removed once the tree grows.
Fill the planting hole
Gently fill the hole with the original soil up to the height of the ball. Avoid pressing the soil too much as it can reduce oxygen supply to the roots. Carefully pile up the soil/dirt around the tree, creating a small depression to hold water.
Care and maintenance
- Mulch around the area with bark or wood chips, away from the base of the trunkto retain moisture.
- Watering helps the soil settle around the roots.
- Keep the soil moist for the first two years. Once the tree grows, lower the watering frequency.
- Prune the broken or damaged limbs of the tree.
- Some trees may require fertilising, which must be done after 2-3 years or once the tree is established.
FAQs
What is the best time to plant a tree?
You can plant a tree before the arrival of summer. The ideal time to plant a tree is spring when the weather is neither too hot nor too cold.
How can I start planting trees?
Start by preparing the soil by watering it and adding compost or organic matter. Dig a hole that is thrice the diameter of the root ball.
How to plant trees in India?
Identify the type of trees that can be easily grown in your region. Decide between a shade tree, an evergreen tree, a fruit tree, an ornamental tree or other types of trees and check the local laws.
Why do we plant trees?
Planting trees at home can improve the air quality and provide shade and privacy.
Which season is best for planting shrubs?
Late winter or early spring is the ideal time to plant shrubs.
What type of soil is good for trees?
Loamy soil holds water and contains adequate nutrients. You can add peat moss and composted organic matter.
What increases the soil’s pH?
Adding composted manure can increase the soil’s pH.
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