Planting & First Three Years

Highlights

The best time to plant is in the fall. Dig a hole 2-3 times wider but not deeper than the root ball, and backfill with native soil or mix in a little compost. Mulch, leaving a hand-width area around the trunk open, and water thoroughly.

Newly planted trees need water in the summer- about 5 gallons per week for every inch of trunk diameter. Water should always be applied slowly.

Prune young trees to create a strong structure and to remove dead, damaged, diseased, crossing, and rubbing branches. This will reduce pruning needs when they mature. Poor pruning techniques can seriously damage your tree so consider hiring a certified arborist or if you are going to do it yourself, check out the Resources to learn how to prune properly.

TREE SELECTION INFORMATION

Small trees list

Small/medium trees list

Medium/large trees list

Large trees list

The Right Tree Book - City Light, PDF (1.2 MB)

Great Plant Picks: 600+ plants (including trees) suitable for the Northwest

TREE PLANTING

New tree planting info, including a very helpful diagram

More tree planting tips

TREE CARE DURING THE FIRST THREE YEARS

Watering newly planted trees

Watering to establish your new plants

Pruning young trees - TLC for Trees

Pruning young trees - Trees are Good