HOW TO PLANT A TREE

Planting a tree not just digging a hole and throwing the tree into it. It is a lifelong investment and to ensure you reap the fruits of this investment it is important that you follow the correct steps.

• Step 1 - Decide what type of tree you want to plant.

Do you need a tree with evergreen foliage, a tree that attracts birds, a tree that produces fruit or just one to provide shade? The options are endless and all good for the environment. Look for a tree with a sturdy trunk and well-developed lower branches. Taller isn’t always better.

• Step 2 - Give the root ball a good soaking.

By soaking the root ball, it will reduce the chances of the tree rejecting the surrounding water when you plant it. You can leave it to soak while you are digging the hole.

• Step 3 - Digging the hole.

Tree roots need space to spread out, so dig a hole about twice the size of the tree’s root ball. To make sure that your tree is comfortable the hole should be large enough to cover the existing roots. Divide the soil into two equal heaps on either side of the hole.

• Step 4 - Enrich the soil.

Add compost equal to half the amount of soil and a handful of bone meal or superphosphate to the one heap. Put a third of this mixture to the bottom of the hole.

• Step 5 - Plant the tree.

Remove your new tree from its container, keeping the root ball intact. If the roots are extremely tangled, you can gently tease them out. 
Now place the tree in the hole, ensuring that it is at the same depth as it was in its container. You can add more of the removed soil if the hole is too deep. Fill the hole with the remaining soil and firm down well. Make sure the soil is firm, so it holds the tree in place.

• Step 6 - Add water.

It is crucial that you water your newly planted tree deeply as it helps the tree to settle in the soil and establish roots.