planting trees • first your tree needs a hole • in light soil dig a BIG one • add lime (or gypsum)
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mulch trees • this gives lawn mower protection • helps retain moisture • helps inhibit growth of weeds, especially grass!
watering trees • regular watering is especially important in the first two years of the life of a tree
if planting in CLAY soil • here a tree may have a problem with wet feet if planted down in the soil • so make a mound of compost and soil, and plant in that • use gypsum (instead of lime) to help break up clay and encourage worms
herbal ley • this is “companion planting” for fruit trees • it is usually easiest to establish in Autumn
other things to consider • stake the tree if concerned about stability, especially if mound planting • sprinkle lime (or gypsum) around drip line each winter
make the area inviting • perhaps add a seat • or other flowering plants
planting bare rooted trees Unpack tree and soak in water 3-6 hours. Do not plant with packing materials attached to roots, and do not allow roots to dry out.
Plant the tree at the same depth it stood in the nursery, without crowding the roots. Partially fill the hole, firming the soil around the lower roots.
After the water has soaked in, place a 5cm deep protective mulch area in a 1 metre diameter around the base of the tree (but not touching the trunk).
Dig a hole, wider than seems necessary, so the roots can spread without crowding. Remove any grass within a metre circular area. To aid root growth, turn soil in an area up to a metre in diameter. Shovel in the remaining soil. It should be firmly, not not tightly packed with your heel. Construct a water-holding basin around the tree. Give the tree plenty of water.
Water the tree generously every week or 10 days during the first year.
pruning it can be quite an art form, but here are two ideas to aim for
encourage even the littlest children to help
Children are more likely to care for the tree if they have helped plant it and grow it.
