Tree Planting Instructions

Bare-Root Tree Planting

Quick Reference Instructions

Materials Needed:

  • Bare root tree

  • Shovel

  • Compost

  • Mulch

  • Water

  • Burlap sacks (optional)

Steps:

  1. Choose the Planting Site

    • Select a location where the tree will thrive based on sunlight, moisture, and soil conditions.

  2. Prepare the Tree

    • Keep the roots hydrated by soaking them in water before planting.

  3. Dig the Hole

    • Make a hole deep and wide enough to allow roots to spread naturally.

  4. Improve Soil Quality

    • Mix compost with healthy forest soil and add a small amount to the bottom of the hole.

  5. Position the Tree

    • Place the tree so the first lateral root is just below the soil line.

  6. Backfill the Hole

    • Fill the hole with soil, gently pressing down to remove air pockets.

    • Water halfway through filling to ensure proper hydration.

  7. Apply Mulch

    • Use aged wood chips to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

    • Keep mulch away from the tree trunk to prevent rot.

  8. Final Watering

    • Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air gaps.

  9. Monitor Growth

    • Keep track of the planting site and check the tree regularly for signs of stress.

Detailed Instructions

1. Introduction

  • Planting a bare root tree is an efficient and ecological method.

  • Ensures strong root establishment and long-term growth.

2. Selecting the Planting Site

Factors to Consider:

  • Sunlight exposure.

  • Soil moisture and drainage.

  • Natural habitat suitability (e.g., elderberry thrives in moist, north-facing slopes).

3. Preparing the Tree

Hydrating the Roots:

  • Store roots in water before planting to prevent dehydration.

4. Digging the Planting Hole

Hole Dimensions:

  • Depth: As deep as the longest root.

  • Width: Wide enough to allow natural root spread.

Soil Considerations:

  • Avoid compacting soil while digging.

  • Remove invasive plant roots from the area.

5. Soil Enhancement

Compost and Microbes:

  • Mix compost with forest soil to introduce beneficial microbes.

  • Avoid overloading with compost to encourage outward root growth.

6. Placing the Tree

Proper Positioning:

  • Ensure the first lateral root is just below the natural soil level.

  • Spread roots outward rather than clumping them together.

7. Backfilling and Watering

Filling the Hole:

  • Add soil in layers, gently pressing to remove air pockets.

Hydration Process:

  • Water halfway through backfilling to improve soil contact.

  • Fully saturate the soil once planting is complete.

8. Mulching for Protection

Choosing Mulch:

  • Use aged wood chips to prevent nitrogen depletion.

  • Avoid heartwood chips and allelopathic species like walnut.

Application Technique:

  • Cover a wide area around the tree with 6-8 inches of mulch.

  • Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent disease.

9. Post-Planting Care

Monitoring Growth:

  • Track the planting location for easy identification.

  • Watch for signs of stress or inadequate moisture.

10. Conclusion

  • Following these steps ensures strong root establishment.

  • Regular monitoring and proper mulching support long-term health.