Why fall? |
Well, the truth is you can plant trees anytime of year (assuming the ground isn't frozen, of course). But fall is the most ideal time to plant for a number of reasons:
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What to plant? |
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How much space do I need? |
Make sure your tree(s) has enough space to grow to its mature size in order to provide the maximum benefits. Trees need room to grow in relation to each other AND above ground / below. Tree soil should have a minimum depth of 3 feet, but ultimately soil volume for the mature size of the tree is the critical factor to consider.
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How to plant? |
One of the questions that many ask is how to properly plant a tree. That depends on what form your tree is in when you purchase it. The National Arbor Day Foundation provides simple instructions AND videos on how to plant each of these types of trees you might get from a nursery.
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How to care for your new tree. |
New trees need care for the first THREE years after they are installed.
Watering new trees is an important establishment task. Here are some helpful resources to learn when and how much to water your new tree. The Arbor Day Foundation has a great page on how to properly water new trees. A California ReLeaf member, the Vacaville Tree Foundation, also has a good summary on how to water new trees. Annual mulching in a ring around the base of the tree ensures moisture stays in the soil, weeds are kept to a minimum, and reduces the risk of mowers and string trimmers damaging the trunk. NOTE: Do NOT allow "volcano mulching" that piles mulch up against the trunk! After 3 years, it is recommended to perform structural pruning to ensure the tree has a good form for future stability and to minimize future storm damage. Casey Trees, another non-profit doing good work in Washington DC, has a series of videos on young tree pruning. Check out their page on YouTube for some great directions to complete this important task. |