How to Plant a Tree (Properly!)

Summary

The video demonstrates how to plant a tree so it can establish healthy roots and grow successfully. It emphasizes choosing a healthy tree that suits the planting site, planting it at the correct depth, and providing water and mulch.

Tree-Planting Steps

1. Choose a healthy tree and learn its needs

   • Ask whether the tree is healthy and what conditions it needs to thrive.
   • If possible, ask the nursery to remove it from its container so you can inspect the roots.
   • Look for straight roots rather than tangled or circling ones. Severely twisted roots may eventually harm the tree.
   • Consider the best planting season. The presenter notes that in California, trees are often planted in fall so they can establish during the rainy season.
   • Find out what is appropriate for the particular tree.

2. Choose the right location

   • Match the site to the tree’s sunlight and drainage needs.
   • Consider the tree’s mature size and leave enough room for it to grow.
   • Avoid planting too close to a house or other structures, keeping fire safety in mind.
   • The demonstration tree is identified as a Cercis.

3. Prepare the hole and position the tree

   • Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball and no deeper than it.
   • Loosen the sides of the hole to help roots grow into the surrounding soil.
   • Tap the container and carefully remove the tree. Make vertical cuts in any circling roots if needed.
   • Straighten and spread the roots outward from the root ball. Some root damage may occur; the goal is to help the roots grow into the native soil.
   • Set the root ball on firm soil in the center of the hole, making sure the tree is upright and level.
   • Position the root collar—the point where the trunk transitions into the roots—about an inch above the soil level. Do not bury it.

4. Backfill and settle the soil

   • Refill the hole with the soil that was removed. The presenter advises against adding fertilizer.
   • Gently compact the soil to reduce air pockets and improve contact between the soil and roots.
   • Staking may be used if necessary, but stakes should be removed soon. The demonstrated tree does not need them.

5. Water thoroughly

   • If the soil is dry, water generously to moisten the roots and help settle the soil.
   • Maintain adequate moisture while the tree establishes.

6. Apply mulch

   • Spread a thick layer of organic mulch around the tree, extending toward the edge of its canopy.
   • Keep the mulch at least six inches away from the trunk.
   • Mulch helps suppress weeds, retain moisture, and moderate soil temperature.

Speakers and Sources Featured

• One on-camera narrator or presenter, whose name is not stated in the subtitles.
• No other speakers or quoted sources are identified.