Planting and Care Tips

8 Easy Steps to Planting a Tree:

  1. Call 811 Before You Dig–locate all underground utilities for your safety by calling at least 48 hours before you dig
  2. Handle aTree by Lifting it by the Pot or Root ball–keep roots moist until planting
  3. Dig a Hole -up to 2 times wider than the root ball diameter and as deep as existing root system
  4. Locate the Trunk Flare & Position it Slightly Above Ground Level–topmost
    root should be buried 1-2”
  5. Backfill with Native Soil–can incorporate up to 25% compost into the native soil, use extrasoil to form a 2-3” rim (basin) in a circle a bit larger than the diameter of the hole
  6. Fertilize (optional)–use a granular fertilizer such as Biotone to promote root establishment
  7. Mulch-Allow 1-2” Clearance between Tree Trunk & Mulch–mulch 2-3” deep
  8. Water thoroughly –fill basin or Gator bag 2-3 times a week for 2 months after planting until established

💧 Watering Tips for Healthy Plants

  • Water 2-3 times per week for newly planted trees and shrubs.
  • Ensure water soaks deeply into the soil—avoid frequent, shallow watering.
  • Plants need at least 1 inch of water per week from rain or irrigation.
  • During extended heat and drought, established plants still require 1” of water per week!
  • Sandy soils need more water than clay soils.
  • Gator bags are great for slow, deep watering of trees.
  • Annuals & vegetables should be watered and/or checked daily.