When to Plant

Ideally plant when plants are dormant—in the fall after leaf drop or in early spring before bud break. However, healthy balled/burlapped or container trees can be planted throughout the growing season

Preventing Plant Stress

Balled/burlapped trees lose a significant portion of their root system when dug at the nursery and may exhibit transplant shock—slowed growth and reduced vitality after planting. Container trees may also experience transplant shock.

Promote recovery through proper site preparation, careful handling to prevent further root damage, and good follow-up care.

Steps to Plant a Tree

Important: The trunk flare is where the trunk expands at the base of the tree. Ensure truck flare is partially visible after the tree is planted.

1. Dig a shallow, broad planting hole—two to three times wider than the root ball but only as deep as the root ball.
2. Remove any cover around the root ball before planting (if in a wire basket, remove or cut one or two rings so it doesn’t interfere with roots. Look for circling roots and straighten, cut or remove them. Lift the tree by the root ball, not the trunk. 
3. Do not plant the tree too deeply – this can harm the tree. Most of the tree’s roots develop in the top 12 inches (30 cm) of soil. 
4. Straighten the tree in the hole before filling. Check from several angles.
5. Fill the hole gently but firmly, packing soil around the base of the root ball to stabilize it and prevent air pockets. Water periodically while backfilling. Avoid fertilizing at time of planting.
6. If staking is necessary, three stakes or underground systems provide optimum support (however, studies show that un-staked trees develop stronger trunks and roots).
7. Mulch the tree base with a few inches (up to 10 cm) of mulch but leave 1 to 2 inches (2.5-5 cm) of mulch-free space around the trunk.
8. Keep the soil moist by watering at least once a week, or more/less frequently depending on rain or heat. Continue until mid-fall, tapering off with wetter weather and lower temperatures.

When choosing a tree and its location, consider the following:

• Soil type and conditions, particularly where dirt is new, compacted or recently disturbed
• Maintenance and watering requirements
• Space constraints and eventual size of grown tree
• Utilities location—do not plant tall trees near overhead lines or above underground piping. Learn more about underground services from BC 1 Call.
• Proximity to property line to ensure the tree will not encroach on neighbouring property when it grows to full size
• Sun and wind exposure, and hardiness of tree in relation to local weather patterns
• Resistance to insects and common local tree diseases
• Intended function (e.g. share, aesthetics or windbreaks)

Before purchasing a tree, consider consulting an arborist or a local nursery for advice.

• The first few years are especially critical for establishing a healthy tree. Watch for signs of poor health such as yellow leaves, wilting foliage, oozing sap or holes in bark, branches or leaves.
• Be careful around your tree when mowing or using a weed trimmer. Consider installing a plastic shield around seedlings.
• Prune sparingly after planting, although minor pruning of branches damaged during planting may be required.
• Delay corrective pruning until after a full season of growth
• If trunk-wrapping is necessary, use biodegradable materials and wrap from the bottom.

Consult an arborist or a local nursery for advice on what to do to ensure your tree thrives or to address problems.

Trees are Good 

Non-profit educational website with information about tree care and planting.