Whether you’re replacing an old tree or planting a new one, it can be a daunting process figuring out what to plant and knowing how to select the ideal site to plant it.
When To Plant A Tree
Trees can be planted at almost any point of the year. Spring and fall are preferable due to the lower temperatures and higher precipitation levels. It is important to note that newly planted trees need plenty of water while their roots establish.
What Kind of Tree Should I Plant?
Choosing a tree is a matter of location and preference. Planting a large deciduous tree in a small spot for shade may be a desire, but over the years it would quickly run out of room to grow. Planning with your arborist on the right location for any tree will help to give it the best chance of survival and cause less headache in the future.
Replacing A Current Tree?
There are some important things to take into consideration when replacing a current tree. Unless it is unavoidable, trees should not be planted where another tree was just removed. The roots of the old tree would not have had enough time to start decomposing, hindering the new tree’s growth. Nutrients could also be a limiting factor as the old tree would have used up much of the nutrients available in the soil.
Ideally, a new tree should be planted at least 3 feet away from the old location. This will ensure the tree has enough space for its roots to grow and should solve any soil issues that the old tree would have left.
I Only Have A Small Space – Can I Limit How Big A Tree Can Grow?
Choosing the right tree for your location is an important step in the tree planting process. While it is possible to chemically control the growth of the canopy of your tree in conjunction with prunings, it is better to choose a tree that will grow well in the space provided from the start. Ornamental trees and narrow canopy trees allow you to have a tree, but also have been selected for their canopy size and shape.
Want to learn more about growth inhibitors and pros/cons to utilizing them? Visit the Splintered Forest blog to learn more.
