How To Plant A Tree

This article refers to recommendations given by the RHS in November 2010

It represents some recent thinking on planting bare-root and root-ball trees to encourage successful establishment.

We have found it gives good results here at Fermoy Woodland Nurseries

• Dig over and loosen the soil for 1.5 meter circle
• Only dig to depth of the root-ball or bare root
• Dig a square hole 3 times the width of the root-ball
• Because roots grow sideways
• This forces root growth into undisturbed soil
• Do not plant too deep – ideally the root flair should be at ground level or even higher
• Do not add organic matter or fertiliser when planting
• It discourages lateral root growth
• Do not allow bare-root plants to dry out
• Immerse in water for 1-2 hours before planting
• This is not necessary with root-ball plants
• Cut hessian sack and leave under the plant with the root-ball exposed
• Bury a perforated hose pipe with one end exposed for watering the tree over the first growing season
• Crumble the soil as you backfill
• Compress the soil around the roots – no excessive ‘heeling in’

TO STAKE OR NOT TO STAKE

• Swaying in the wind is good for trees, it promotes trunk and root growth
• But, too much wind will damage the root system
• Trees should be checked regularly for wind rock after planting
• Stakes can be driven into the ground before backfilling
• Stakes should be only 60-70cm above ground level and upwind of the tree
• Use flexible ties and check these often
• More damage is done by unchecked stakes and ties then by the wind!

AFTERCARE

• Spiral tree guards give good rabbit protection
• Water weekly through to the first Autumn
• Make regular checks of stakes and ties and remove them after 2^nd spring
• Keep the base grass and weed free
• Mulch with bark, wood-chips, leaf mould or mypex
• But not too close to the bark – this can cause rot
• Be careful of strimmers and lawnmowers – they can cause the most harm by ring barking the tree