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Proper Plant Depth
Trees should be planted with the root flare at the proper height rather than buried beneath excess soil or mulch. Planting too deep can contribute to poor root development and long-term tree health problems.
Root Ball Preparation
Container grown and balled trees can have circling or poorly formed roots before they’re ever planted. The root ball is inspected and problem roots are corrected as needed before planting to reduce the potential for future girdling roots.
Watering & Drip Irrigation
Newly planted trees need adequate water throughout establishment. Existing drip irrigation can be extended and emitters adjusted as needed to provide appropriate coverage for the new tree.
Mulching
Mulch can help retain soil moisture and reduce competition around a newly planted tree, but it should not be piled against the trunk or over the root flare. Mulch volcanoes can hold moisture against the trunk and contribute to decay and other problems.
Staking & Pruning
Trees are staked when additional support is needed during establishment. Minor pruning can also be performed at planting to address damaged or problematic branches without unnecessarily removing healthy canopy.