By setting a newly planted tree up for success and doing everything right from the beginning, you help ensure that they will grow bigger, stronger, and healthier.
By setting a newly planted tree up for success and doing everything right from the beginning, you help ensure that they will grow bigger, stronger, and healthier. That does mean giving your newly planted tree some extra care and attention, but it goes a long way. While many people struggle to take care of plants in their initial growing phases, there are ways to mitigate risk and promote healthy growth in your tree. If you’re caring for a newly planted tree, good news: you’re in the right place and we have all the tips you’re going to need!
Get Your Planting Location Right
You have to ask yourself a few questions regarding your newly planted tree and where you’re going to put it. You need to ensure that there’s enough space for it to grow, that it won’t damage infrastructure like sidewalks or roads, and that it’s going to get enough sunlight to grow. Generally, you also want to make sure you’re picking the right kind of tree for your climate as well, such that it can survive whatever weather conditions are thrown at it.
Properly Watering Your Plant
Regular watering is key and it’s important that water gets all the way down to the tree’s roots. Unlike most houseplants, a tree is going to need less frequent watering, but much more deep watering. You want to use any system that can deliver water slowly but for a long time, including drip irrigation systems, garden hoses, or soaker hoses. Water the root ball and the area surrounding it, helping the tree grow and gain strength.
Using Mulch to Promote Growth
While mulch may not be totally necessary for your newly planted tree, it can help in the right conditions. Mulch can help your tree retain its moisture, keep its soil at the right temperature, and even prevent weeds from growing around it and taking away valuable nutrients. Using an organic layer of mulch is often the best approach, like wood chips, shredded bark, or pine straw. Or, if you’re worried about weeds, look for something that advertises itself as such.
Use Stakes to Your Advantage
Sometimes a stake is necessary, though if that’s the case, stakes can be removed after a year or two. Otherwise, they may prevent the tree from securing its root system. Proper staking will help your tree develop proper form, but improper staking can kill a tree immaturely.
Pruning Your Newly Planted Tree
Your tree should grow for an entire season before you start pruning. In the early years, your tree is going to need whatever help it can get. Make sure you also remove any damaged branches, which can leave your newly planted tree vulnerable to harmful pests or bacteria.
Tree Care and Maintenance from Harford Tree
Ready to have the beautiful yard you have always dreamed of? Harford Tree Experts & Landscaping, Inc has been in the business for decades, providing customers with quality work and quick responses all at the right price. We service the areas of Harford County, Baltimore County, Baltimore City areas including Bel Air, Fallston, Perry Hall, Towson, Essex, Parkville, White Marsh and Middle River.
For service during business hours, reach out to us or give us a call at 410-592-7321. We offer 24/7 emergency service as well, just give us a call at 443-250-6649. For updates about our business and more informative tips, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.