Successful Tree Planting
Follow the 3 steps below to ensure you get good results. If you would like any further advice or help, please do ask. We have many years of experience and are always happy to advise.
1. Select plants of appropriate type and size for the planting site conditions. Many plants we offer will succeed in most situations but the following should be noted:
- If the site is near the sea then you will need to be more careful in selecting suitable plants
- Rhododendrons will not grow on chalky or lime rich soils
- Yews, box, olive and vines should not be planted on wet ground
2. Make sure they are well planted.
- Plant in reasonable soil. If the soil is poor then mix in some tree planting compost. A small amount of well-rotted farmyard manure or compost could also be used, but do not add too much. Make sure any additions are mixed in well with the soil.
- Plant at correct depth. Do not plant too deeply.
- Ensure that trees, larger shrubs and conifers are securely staked. Do not drive the stake through the rootball. Poor staking will result in the tree rocking in the wind and will prevent it being able to root into the surrounding soil, leading to the tree dying. Please ask for our detailed instructions for staking methods.
- Firm in well to remove any air pockets in soil
- Water in well after planting
3. Look after them. Water regularly, particularly larger plants, during the first growing season according to weather conditions. Feel the soil to make sure you are not under or over watering.
Control weeds around base of plants. Ideally create grass / weed-free zone of 50 to 100cm diameter around the base. This will avoid the need to mow around base of tree - but if you have to use mowers or strimmers, take care not to damage the bark at the base of the tree.
Control weeds around base of plants. Ideally create grass / weed-free zone of 50 to 100cm diameter around the base. This will avoid the need to mow around base of tree - but if you have to use mowers or strimmers, take care not to damage the bark at the base of the tree.
If you follow the guidelines above, your plants will have the best start and should achieve good results. However, being natural, plants are all different and occasionally may struggle to get established. If you are concerned about the plants, please contact us for advice. Don’t wait and hope the plants get better as by then it may be too late to remedy any problem. We are always happy to give advice over the telephone.
