WASHINGTON — When you’re looking for a shady place to sit, listening to the sound of chirping birds, or just need to take a deep breath — you can thank a tree for all of that.
Friday, April 28 is Arbor Day. It's a day designated to encourage people to plant a tree.
THE QUESTION:
What are the steps to take before planting a tree?
THE SOURCES:
WHAT WE LEARNED:
First, pick a spot to plant: the USDA advises that should be at least three feet from pavement or fencing, 15 feet from buildings or other trees, and 25 feet from overhead electrical wires, if you’re planting something that will grow taller than that.
Research expected size, plus soil and light requirements of a tree before you plant it: our experts all recommend picking plants native to the region so they have the best chance of survival.
The University of Maryland Extension Office says smaller, younger plants will establish themselves and begin to grow faster than trees that are more mature when you plant them.
This step is important: locate underground utilities before digging, to keep yourself and your neighbors safe.
Call 811 to schedule an inspection t least two business days before you dig. It's free, and it’s required by law.
Cleared to dig in? The Arbor Day Foundation instructs shoveling a hole about 3 times as wide as the tree’s rootball, but not too deep–if you’re planting a balled-and-burlapped or container grown tree, the “root flare” where the trunk curves out into roots should be at or slightly above ground-level. That’s because Colorado State University explains online: tree roots need oxygen to grow. (Picture how a kid draws a tree, with the curve where it hits the ground—that’s what your tree should look like.)
UMD advises watering the rootball and the planting area the day before putting the tree in the ground, if possible, to help everything keep hydrated.
Our experts also recommend a layer of mulch covering as far as the branches reach and regular watering to help the tree get established and grow.
Questions about taking care of the trees once they're rooted--or the ones you already have in your yard? The United States Department of Agriculture, The University of Maryland Extension Office, The Arbor Day Foundation, and Colorado State University also provide tips and resources for specific plants, selecting trees, and care guidance for established, sick, or overgrown trees.