How to Care for Young Trees

If you want to plant a new tree that has a few years of growth ahead of it, here are some of the basic tips:

Know Where to Plant

Plan where you’re going to put a young tree. Choose a location that has enough space for your tree’s branches and roots to spread as it grows. Consider:

• Do you want more privacy? If placed strategically, trees can give your home a more intimate feel.  
• Where do you need shade? Trees cool your home and reduce the need for air conditioning or fans.
• Check the surroundings. Make sure there are no wires overhead or water or sewer pipes directly beneath the planting area.

Choose Your Tree

The kind of tree you want depends on your purpose for planting and the space you allocated for it. Common purposes for planting a tree are:

• Food
• Privacy
• Shade
• Flooding

Also ask yourself:

• How big is the space? To maximize its benefits, choose the biggest tree that can grow into the space you have selected.
• Do I want an evergreen or a deciduous tree? Evergreens are plants that have green needles throughout the year. Deciduous trees lose leaves during fall, but often change to beautiful hues and colours before dying.
• What kind of soil do I have? Certain species of trees thrive in wet soil while others survive better in dry soil. If you’re unsure about the kind of soil you have, consult an arborist or tree expert.

Caring for a New Tree

Now you’ve planted, you’re ready to maintain and help the growth of your young tree. There are two priorities:

Water

Until a new tree has developed its roots, water it regularly. For the first two years, give your young tree ample moisture twice a week for at least 15-20 minutes. In its third year, change the watering frequency to once a week for an hour. After the third year, you no likely longer need to water the tree unless your area is experiencing drought.

Mulch and feed

Organic materials surrounding the base of your tree can help prevent weeds or other plants from growing near your new tree and pulling away nutrients or water. When feeding your tree, use natural fertilizers such as compost or manure. Ask a tree expert for the best ways to mulch your tree.

A young tree is vulnerable. Care for your tree and give it the attention it needs so it grows healthy and strong.

If you need help with the care of your young or newly planted trees in Richmond Hill or Bradford, ON, David Lund Tree Services offers removal, spraying, and pruning services. Call us at (905) 884-0511 or (905) 775-1020. 1-800-363-0511 is our toll-free number.