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How To Give Your Trees A Good Start In Life

Knowing when, what, where, and how to plant is essential to a tree's life span. Whether you live in Arlington or Aldie, Great Falls or Gainsville, you'll want to keep the trees in your Northern Virginia yard as healthy as can be. Trees, after all, can be real assets that continually appreciate in value. Here are some important tips from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) to keep in mind before, during, and after planting a tree.

• Time of year - The best time to plant trees is during the dormant season, in the fall after leaves drop or early spring before buds break. Weather conditions are cool and allow plants to establish roots in the new location before spring rains and summer heat stimulate new top growth.
• Tree selection - Believe it or not, many people don't take tree growth into consideration when choosing what species to plant. Think about how the tree will look 50 years from now as well as this planting season. Consider its mature height, width, and overall shape before making your final choice.
• Site selection -- Choose a location with the right soil, space, and light conditions for your tree. Will your tree need shade or sun? Wet soil or dry? What insects, pollutants, drought conditions, or other environmental factors might affect its long-term viability? Avoid planting large trees under or near power lines. Also remember that tree roots spread well beyond their branches; so pick a planting spot with plenty of room for underground development, too.

Proper planting techniques are critical to the life of a tree. All too often, people make their first and biggest planting mistake when they dig the hole that will be their tree's home.

A good rule of thumb is to dig the hole about three times the width of the root ball. The depth of the hole is just as crucial; dig the hole no deeper than the height of the root ball. By properly preparing the planting hole, you will help the tree's root system establish more quickly. Remember: Healthy roots make healthy trees.

The ISA also recommends loosening the soil around the planting hole to give tree roots ample room to grow; straightening the tree in the hole before refilling with soil; filling the hole gently but firmly; and mulching the base of the tree. After planting, keep the soil moist but not soaked; check soil moisture once a week (more often in hot weather); and prune sparingly and only when necessary.

Second Nature, Inc. specializes in custom Northern Virginia residential landscape design and construction. And planting trees is just one of a wide range of landscaping services we offer. Call us today to learn more!