Everything You Should Know About Caring for New Trees

Planting a new tree is one of the most rewarding things you can do for your home and the environment. Trees provide shade, clean air, and a habitat for wildlife, but getting a new tree started can be tricky. Caring for a new tree requires a little extra attention, but the benefits are priceless. In this blog post, I’ll cover some of the most essential tips for caring for new trees, so you can enjoy your new tree and all its benefits for years to come.

Choose the Right Spot

Before you even start planting your new tree, you need to choose the right spot. Trees depend on sunlight, water, and nutrients, so you need to make sure the spot has the right conditions. Make sure your new tree is in a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day and has plenty of space to grow. Avoid planting near power lines, buildings, or sidewalks because the roots can cause damage. You also need to make sure that the soil is well-drained and has the right pH level for your tree.

Plant Properly

One of the most common mistakes people make when planting new trees is not digging a large enough hole. You need to dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to cover the top of the root ball with soil. Make sure to loosen the soil and remove any rocks or other debris around the planting area. Gently place the tree in the hole and cover the roots with soil. Be sure not to bury the trunk too deep so as not to suffocate it.

Water Regularly

New trees need plenty of water to get established. You'll want to water your new tree deeply at least once a week, soaking the soil around the roots. Do not water too frequently, as this may drown the roots. Also, water the tree slowly so that the water will seep in and reach the roots. If the soil is dry, you may need to water more frequently.

Mulch the Base

Mulch is an essential tool for caring for your new tree. It helps to retain water in the soil, moderates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds. It's best to spread two to three inches of mulch around the base of your tree, being sure to keep it at least two inches away from the trunk. be sure not to use rock or gravel as the stone tends to heat up and dry out the soil.

Prune and Protect

Pruning is important for the health and appearance of your tree and should be done carefully to remove any dead or diseased branches. It is best to prune during the tree's dormancy phase, usually in the winter, to prevent stress and reduce the risk of disease transmission. If you plan to DIY, always use clean, sharp tools for a clean cut that heals quickly. However, if you're unfamiliar with pruning, it's best to call a tree trimming service to help you ensure it's pruned properly and ready to grow come spring. In addition to pruning, protect the young tree from pests and rodents by using tree guards, and from extreme weather conditions by providing necessary supports against strong winds or heavy snow.

Caring for new trees requires a little extra attention, but the results are worth it. By selecting the right spot, planting properly, watering regularly, mulching the base, and pruning and protecting, you can successfully establish your new tree. Remember, trees are an investment in the future, and they bring a host of benefits including shade, cleaner air, and a habitat for wildlife. With a little extra care, your new tree will thrive for years to come. Happy planting!