Steps to Plant Properly
Step 1: DIG
Dig hole 6 inches larger than size of root ball. Set plant in hole so that top of root ball is lever or slightly higher than existing ground. Never plant a tree too low or put soil on top of the root ball.
Step 2: BACKFILL
Backfill with soil. On larger trees eliminate all air pockets by sticking hose into backfilled soil area, 6-8" deep several times in different spots around plant and compact soil firmly with foot.
Step 3: WATER
Water once or twice a day for first thirty days. Days 30-60, water every other day. Days 60-90, water every third day. Days 90-120, water twice per week. After that, once a week should be sufficient.
Step 4: FERTILIZE
Fertilize 30 days after planting. Sprinkle on top of root ball but away from trunk, and water in thoroughly. Fertilize four times a year, March, June, August and October.
Good to Know...
It takes 30 days for a plant to get established. Until then they are dependent on you for water and care. Yellow leaves that drop shortly after planting, it could be too little water. Yellow or brown leaves that appear 3-4 weeks after planting could mean you have planted it too deep. Give us a call and we can help you figure it out! We want our clients to be successful!
Fun Fact...
Different parts of a tree grow at different times throughout the year. Typically, most of the foliage growth happens in the spring, followed by trunk growth in the summer and root growth in the fall and winter.