How to Plant a Tree

1. Planting a tree is one of the best ways to upgrade your yard, but doing it right ensures your new tree actually survives and thrives for decades. Here is a foolproof, step-by-step guide that anyone can follow.

1. Before you dig, look at the base of your tree’s trunk. The root flare is where the trunk starts to widen out into the roots. You want this flare to sit just above the ground level when you are done. If your tree is in a plastic pot, gently slide it out to find this point.

1. The biggest mistake people make is digging a hole that is too deep and narrow.
2. Width: Dig the hole 2 to 3 times wider than the root ball. This loosens the surrounding soil so new roots can easily grow into it.
3. Depth: Dig only as deep as the root ball. You want the tree sitting on firm ground so it doesn’t settle too deep later.

1. If your tree was in a plastic pot, the roots might be tightly wound in a circle. Gently use your fingers or pruners to loosen or slice those outer roots. If it’s wrapped in burlap, place it in the hole first, then cut away the wire basket and burlap from at least the top half of the ball.

1. Lower the tree into the center of the hole. Step back and look at it from a couple of angles to make sure it’s standing up straight. Ensure that root flare you found in Step 1 is level with or slightly higher than the surrounding grass.

1. Fill the hole back up using the exact same soil you just dug out. Do not add fertilizer, compost, or potting soil to the hole, this actually tricks the roots into staying inside the hole instead of spreading out. Gently tap the soil down with your hands or feet as you go to get rid of air pockets, but don’t stomp it down too hard.

1. Give your new tree a massive drink of water right away. This hydrates the roots and helps the soil settle naturally.

1. Spread a 2-to-3-inch layer of mulch over the entire dug-up area to lock in moisture and keep weeds away.
2. Important: Leave a 2-inch gap of bare dirt directly around the trunk. Do not pile mulch against the bark (often called a “mulch volcano”), as this traps moisture against the wood and rots the tree!

Aftercare Tip

1. For the first few weeks, check on your tree every couple of days. If the soil an inch below the mulch feels dry, give it another deep soaking. It is way better to water it deeply once or twice a week than to give it a tiny splash every day!