CARING FOR YOUR NEW TREES
It is important to remember that potted trees are perishable and must be handled and stored carefully in order to ensure they survive and grow.
One of the most important things you can do to ensure your trees will remain healthy is to keep the roots moist and cool prior to and during planting. It is also important to remember tree roots require oxygen to survive, so never over water or leave trees submerged in water. Once you receive your trees it is important to plant them as soon as possible, however if you must delay planting, keep them moist especially if stored in full sunlight, the black pots will quickly dry out the potting soil.
Once planted water enough to prevent the potting soil from drying. Adding mulch, straw or any other ground cover will greatly aid in retaining moisture and allow for longer times between watering. Keep the roots moist, but not soaked and weed and grass growth should be prevented within a 1-2 ft radius of the trunk to allow the tree to get the most from any rain or watering, this will help the roots establish themselves and help the tree to become self sufficient. Any fertilizer or manure should be placed on top the surfaced and be watered into the roots, not placed directly in the hole, the only exception to this rule is bone or blood meal.
The following points should be taken into consideration when planting your trees:
-Find a spot that allows the tree enough room to grow in the future that is preferably slightly sheltered from trampling, high winds or other damage. -Remove grass, weeds or turf within at least a 1 foot radius of the planting hole. -The hole should be 4 inches wider and deeper than the roots in order to make sure the roots have loose soil to grow into. -The depth of planting should be about the same as the tree was originally planted. Depth can be determined by looking for the slight color change on the stem. -Place moist soil (not clay) around the roots and tamp it down firmly but not overly tight, a ¼ handful of bone meal mixed in will speed root development. Do not add manure or other strong fertilizers to the hole. Mound a "dish" around the tree to help catch and retain water. -Water thoroughly at planting and water often if there is no rain. Never allow the soil to completely dry out. A deep watering is recommended every 14 days during dry periods. -It is recommended to fertilize when the tree is planted. Apply the fertilizer to the surface and water it in. You can fertilize again before July 1 if time permits but remember the new growth must be given time to harden up before the first frost. -For Evergreens it is also a good idea to water prior to freeze-up in late fall to minimize the effects of winter drying. -The area around the base of the tree should be kept free of grass and weeds for the first 4 or 5 years after planting otherwise competition for water, nutrients and light will result in stunted growth and reduced health. Prairietime trees does not warranty or guarantee any trees once they are out of our care. Trees are agreed to be viable and in good health upon acceptance. |
Benefits of Fertilizing your trees.
Just like plants and grass, trees can benefit greatly from fertilizing. It provides for full lush growth and vibrant colors along with nutrients to build a strong root system to keep the tree growing strong, maintain good health and keep up disease resistance thoughout the growing season.
Prairietime Trees recommends a mix of at least 10-10-10 or similiar and spread per manufacturers recommendations. Be careful, young trees are delicate and over fertilizing can do a lot of damage or even kill them.