Planting Your New Tree

Trees play an important role in our landscapes. Not only do they provide shade, beauty, and structure, they can also hold a great deal of sentimental value. From tire swings to treehouses, some of our most precious memories are centred around a beloved tree.

As our communities grow many newer homes tend to lack mature trees. Planting just one new tree makes a tangible, long-lasting difference for a community. Trees leave a legacy on a property that will often be there much longer than you will, and every year it’ll give a little more back. From its earliest days your new tree will produce oxygen, soon thereafter it will become a shelter for wildlife. Then, someday, it will be a landmark that will always remind someone of home.

The Best Time of Year to Plant a Tree

Planting when a tree is dormant in early spring has traditionally been known as the best time to plant a tree. However, if you’ve been wanting to plant a new tree, did you know that there’s no need to wait until next spring? Planting a potted tree can be done at any time of the year as long as you can get a shovel in the ground, spring, summer or fall.

Despite the common belief that spring is the only time to plant, summer can be a great time to give a tree a new home in your landscape with some very simple maintenance. When planting in the summer it’s important to water it thoroughly and regularly to keep the root ball moist. We recommend a generous drink every third day or so. You can also check with your finger to assess soil moisture levels and see if your watering schedule needs adjustment.

Planting a New Tree

Choose a location for your tree that will look attractive and suit the environment the tree is adapted to. For instance, if the tree prefers a wetter environment, a lower area in the landscape will collect more water during rainfall.

Before you plant your tree, make sure you’ve got some black earth on hand to backfill the space between the tree’s root ball and the surrounding ground. Fresh black soil has air pockets that will allow new roots to pass through easily as the tree establishes, whereas compacted old soil may be tougher for the new roots to penetrate. Allow several inches of space around the root ball. The tree’s label will tell you how much space is recommended.

The hole itself should be about the same depth as the root ball so the tree can be planted level with the ground. Ensure that any circling roots are pulled away from the root ball. This will ensure that root girdling won’t happen. After planting, water the tree well and lay down a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds from sprouting in the fresh soil.

Your New Tree’s First Year

During your tree’s first spring and summer, water it well every 10-14 days if needed to help it establish. Continue watering until the ground begins to freeze in the late fall. Freshly planted trees are much more vulnerable than established trees, so be very careful not to run over the root ball or bump the trunk with a lawn mower or weed whacker. Mulch the tree within about a foot and a half radius of the trunk to prevent the need for lawn tools near the planting site— just be sure not to pile too much mulch around the base as this could lead to rotting.

If you’re concerned about your new tree surviving its first Manitoba winter you can consider wrapping the tree. We also carry materials to help guard your tree against rodents and deer. Our staff can help you choose the right items for your tree species.

A new tree is a significant investment in your landscape — one that you’ll grow to love more and more each year. As your tree matures and grows, it will begin to shape the way you and others see your property. With the right start, your new tree will be on its way to enjoying a long and healthy life.