Plant your Trees Properly

Planting your trees properly is one of the most important factors regarding your plant's survival. Make sure you know the best way to put your trees in the ground so they can have a great start and establish their roots successfully.

 Digging a wide enough planting hole is essential.

• A hole twice as wide as the rootball is recommended, but three times as wide is even better. 
• However, the hole should only be as deep as the height of the rootball.

Placing the Tree

• Make sure to place the tree so the best side of the tree is facing the direction you want.
• Cut twine from the rootball and push the burlap to the bottom of the hole. 

Backfill the Hole

• Backfill the soil into the hole, packing it lightly as you go.
• Make sure there are no air pockets left in the hole.
• Check the trunk frequently as you're filling the hole to ensure the tree is not leaning.

Stake the Tree

• Stake the tree through the rootball down to the ground beneath.
• Tie the trunk loosely to the stake. It shouldn't be bound tightly.

Caring for the Tree 

• Water everyday for the first several weeks after planting the tree.
• Fertilizing the plant right away can actually harm your tree, so wait until the following year before adding any fertilizer.
• Adding a layer of mulch can help your tree retain moisture and keep weeds away.

Read the full article, The Proper Way to Plant a Tree, from Better Homes and Gardens.