How to Plant and Water Trees
- 1). Pick an area to plant the tree that provides full sun, well-draining soil and sufficient space for the fully grown tree. Allow plenty of room above, below ground and all around the planting site.
- 2). Contact the local utility companies to find out about any underground cables, water pipes or gas lines in the selected planting area.
- 3). Dig a hole equal to the depth of the container holding the tree or the root ball. Extend the width of the hole three to five times the width of the root ball to allow the roots to grow horizontally. Break up any large clumps of soil.
- 4). Water the tree thoroughly and then remove the container. Look over the roots and get rid of any broken or unhealthy roots, and loosen encircling roots.
- 5). Pick the tree up by the root ball and put the tree in the center of the planting hole, spread out the roots. Verify the tree is straight and the trunk flare sits 2 to 3 inches above ground level to allow for soil settling.
- 6). Add the removed soil to the hole partway and then very gently pat the soil around the roots. Finish filling the hole and then drench with water to settle the tree in place and to remove any air pockets.
- 7). Mound the soil around the planting hole 3 or more inches high to create a watering ring. Fill the ring with water and allow water to drain.
- 8). Cover the area with a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch to deter weeds and to hold moisture. Keep the mulch at least three inches away from the tree's trunk
- 9). Check the soil beneath the mulch once weekly to see if it is dry. Water the tree to maintain moist but not soggy soil.
- 10
Place a hose inside the watering ring, turn on a slow flow of water and leave it on for several hours. Continue to water frequently throughout the first growing season.
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