Planting Container Grown Trees

1. Pre-soak tree in its pot. (Preferably day before planting)

2. Dig hole at least half again the size of the root ball, ensuring sides are not compacted to allow new root penetration

3. Prepare the soil so that is free draining, whilst being water retentive to survive drier periods.

4. Mix 2-3 shovels of grit with one bag of compost per tree

5. Fill base of hole with the above mixture.

6. Carefully remove from pot. (Gently pull out horizontally), and tease out the outer roots, avoiding any damage

7. Treat tree root directly as well as the base of the hole with Rootgrow

8. Place tree in hole and layer in more compost mixture, firming down each layer as you go, to avoid any air-pockets. Tamp down firmly. In the final top layer of the compost mix in bone-meal and slow release fertilizer, such as Osmacote. (Available from garden centres)

9. Ensure tree base is proud of surrounding ground to avoid trunk rotting.

10. Stake with two or three stakes (*2-3 inch round depending on tree size) Securely fasten using lengths of tree belt with nail gun into the post for stability of the root ball. (Stake no higher than 1 meter above ground)

Double Staking using opposing 

Click HERE for a supplier of Tree belts and Belt Blocks

 

11. Use a mulch mat around the tree to prevent grass and weed growth around the tree, which will deprive the tree of water and minerals.

12. Ensure the trees receive sufficient water for the first season Initially water through the rootball and if necessary gently create 1-2cm drainage holes in the top of the rootball with a dibber. This will help water seep into the rootball, rather than round it. Burying PVC water pipes either side of the rootball with holes drilled every 2 cm by the side and below the rootball will provide an effective root watering system. Ensure that the pipe goes 30cm below the root ball to encourage the roots to grow downwards.

13. Apart from the Osmacote or equivalent, do not feed the tree for the first few months to encourage the Rootgrow to germinate and increase the efficiency of water and mineral uptake.

14. Top-dress with appropriate tree fertilizer next spring.