Caring for New Trees

Newly planted trees need care, especially in the first two to three years after planting.

Watering

New trees need lots of water. Watering with a garden hose at low volume or utilizing a soaker hose is ideal since it allows water to infiltrate the soil slowly. Less frequent but thorough watering is more beneficial to root development than frequent shallow watering. Tree roots need oxygen. Over-watering is just as problematic as under-watering. Test the soil moisture using a trowel to dig two inches into the soil. Use your fingers to feel the soil in the small trench you created. If it is dry, it is time to water. You can use a hose at the tree's base, with water on low, or purchase watering bags that you fill for a slow soaking.

Slow watering with a hose

It is hard to say precisely how much to water your tree, but 15 gallons once per week is a good starting place for trees that are approximately 1.5 inches in caliper. If your tree is larger than that, or if the weather is hot and dry, increase the amount of water or water twice a week. Water your tree for the first two years after planting. Begin watering when the ground thaws and until the ground freezes.

What about lawn sprinklers and rainfall?

Lawn sprinklers do not provide the deep watering that trees need, and natural rainfall often isn’t enough.

Tree Stabilization

Tree stabilization may be necessary for windy areas or trees without an adequate root system. Tree stabilization may consist of stakes, guys, and other materials. Here, we describe a method using stakes, but there are a variety of systems out there with varying costs and amounts of labor required. If you use stakes, use 2 to 3 stakes placed just inside the edge of the mulch ring and wide nylon or canvas straps tied loosely around the trunk. Use 1-3 stakes attached low on the trunk for an unstable root ball. Remove all stakes after 1 year.

A watering bag placed around its own stake.

Staking Techniques

Trunk Guards

If winter damage to the trunk by rodents or rabbits is a concern, install a trunk guard made of plastic tubing, hardware cloth, or wire fencing. Allow 1-4 inches of space around the trunk and ensure it is tall enough to protect in snow. Remove in spring.

Mulching

Mulch is any woody or herbaceous material spread over a plant's root zone. Mulch can be aged wood chips, shredded bark, pine needles, composted leaves, composted grass clippings, and other organic material.

Why mulch? 

Mulch reduces the shortcomings of urban sites by replicating natural forest processes. It increases nutrients and water retention, buffers soil temperatures, and protects the roots. It also reduces root-zone erosion potential, soil compaction, and weed growth and prevents damage by lawnmowers, string trimmers, and other machinery.

How to use mulch?

Place mulch in a ring at least 3 inches away from the tree trunk, at a depth of 2-4 inches, and ideally out to the tree crown. When in doubt, use the 3-3-3 method, mulching 3 inches high, 3 inches away from the trunk, in a 3-foot ring. Occasionally, you may need to pull mulch away from the tree's trunk as the mulch settles around the trunk. Raking away old mulch before applying new mulch helps maintain the correct depth.

Correct Mulch Technique

This poor practice is commonly seen in the landscape and is harmful to trees

Fertilizing

New trees typically do not require fertilization. Only use fertilizer if a soil test indicates a deficiency. For information on testing your soil, contact the UMass Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Lab at 413-545-2311 or https://soiltest.umass.edu/. Improper use of fertilizer can damage your tree and the environment.

Pruning and Periodic Inspection

Prune only dead and broken branches at planting. After 2 years, you may begin structural pruning. Your tree will likely require pruning every 1-2 years to establish and maintain proper structure. If your tree is within 10 feet of utility lines, or you need to use a ladder or chainsaw, contact an arborist. For tools, techniques, and safety guidance, see The Tree Owner’s Manual, pages 18-23. Periodically, inspect the tree for insect and disease problems. Protect the tree from lawnmowers, string trimmers, construction, soil compaction, and road salt.

REFERENCES:

Tree Owner’s Manual, www.treeownersmanual.info

Tree Planting Best Management Practices. 2014. 2nd ed. Champaign, IL: International Society of Arboriculture

Arbor Day Foundation Videos www.arborday.org/trees/video-library.cfm

New Tree Planting. 2011. International Society of Arboriculture, www.treesaregood.com/treecare/resources/new_treeplanting.pdf