When planting trees, please consider:
- All newly planted trees require regular watering, applied in all seasons, for three-four years after planting.
- Consider mature heights and widths when choosing species for specific planting locations.
The Colorado Tree Coalition provides the following guidelines for planting trees.
Plant: Top of root flare should be 1-3" higher than original grade.
Prune: Remove any dead, damaged or interfering branches.
Staking: Use flat straps or webbing around the tree's stem. Stakes should be firmly place in the undisturbed soil.
Rootball: Handle carefully. Remove wrappings (burlap, plastic, wire basket, twine, etc.) from at least the top half.
Mulch: Add wood chips or similar over root ball area 3-4" deep. Keep away from stem.
Measure a depth of the root ball from the top to the base.
Dig a hole that is at least twice the diameter of the root ball or container. Make it saucer shaped. Depth of hold should be about 1-3" shallower than the root ball.
Set the tree in the center of the hole. Remove wrapping (burlap, plastic, wire basket, twine, et.) from at least the top half of the root ball. Remove as much of the wrapping material as possible without damaging the ball. Check container grown plants for girdling roots. Cut them or spread them into planting hole.
Backfill with original soil. Adding and mixing organic matter into the backfill is okay, about 10%. Gently firm the backfill material as it is placed in the hole. Do not compact it. Watering helps settle the soil. If enough soil is available, build a small berm/dam around the hole to help hold water and mulch. Check for settling after a couple hours.
Staking may be necessary if tree stem does not seem secure. Add two stakes about 18-24" from stem. Make sure the stakes are secured in original soil for stability. Attach flat webbing on the lower half of the stem. Secure webbing to stakes with twine. Allow for some flexibility. No twine or wire around the plan stem!
Mulch around the planting hole with wood chips or similar product to a depth of 3-4". Mulch conserves moisture and reduces grass and weed growth. Keep mulch a few inches away from the tree stem.