7 Steps to Plant for Success

• Examine the roots. Roots that are circling should be redirected to grow out into the soil. If this is not possible, it is better to cut a root than to allow it to continue growing in a circular fashion. Circling roots will stunt the growth of the tree and can eventually lead to the tree’s death.
• Dig the hole only as deep as the root ball but 2-3 times wider.
• Expose the root flare. The root flare is the area where the first major roots

  This tree is planted too deeply. In one study 80% of the trees planted by professionals were 2-4" too deep, causing many trees to slowly die.

  extend out from the tru nk. Make sure the root flare is at least 1 inch higher than the finished soil height. If you are planting a container tree, the root flare may be buried in the pot – dig back the soil to expose it.
• Fill the planting hole with native soil. Do not add soil amendments like compost or fertilizer.
• Mulch. Add a 1 inch thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree, but do not let the mulch touch the trunk. Mulch against the trunk will lead to decay. Mulch is a great way to keep weeds and grass away from the trunk, maintain soil moisture and provide nutrients to the tree.
• Stake only if necessary. Stakes can rub and cause damage to the bark and branches. Stake only if the tree cannot remain straight without support. Remove stakes after one year.
• Water. Give the tree a good drink of water to help it overcome the stress of planting.

Help Your Tree Grow Strong

The first three years are very important for your young tree. Follow these steps to be sure your tree stays healthy and to reduce future costs and problems.

• Water is the best thing you can do for a young tree. Newly planted trees need water in the summer. Water should always be applied slowly. Once or twice a week, use a garden hose set to a slow trickle for 30 minutes. To test proper watering, dig into the dirt 2 inches below the surface. This soil should be damp, but not wet.
  
• Prune young trees to create a strong structure and to remove dead, damaged, diseased, crossing, and rubbing branches. This will make your tree safer and healthier when it is older. Poor pruning techniques such as topping can seriously damage your tree so think about hiring a certified arborist. See the City's pruning guide if you want to try it yourself. Groups like Plant Amnesty and Seattle Tilth give workshops on pruning.
  
• Only stake a tree if necessary to hold it upright. Be sure stakes do not rub against the trunk or branches, causing wounds which can lead to disease and tree death. Remove stakes 1-2 years after planting. You can test if stakes are ready to be removed by grasping the tree at the bottom of the trunk and gently shaking it. If the soil around the tree does not move, the tree’s roots are strong and the stakes can be removed. Many newly planted trees do not need stakes.

Further Resources

TREE PLANTING

New tree planting info, including a very helpful diagram

More tree planting tips

Another good resource for tree planting information

TREE CARE DURING THE FIRST THREE YEARS

Watering newly planted trees

Pruning young trees - TLC for Trees

Pruning young trees - Trees are Good