Plan before you plant
"With a little luck and proper care, the tree you plant today may be around for decades to come," says Ken Holman, community forestry coordinator for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. "Many trees can be planted throughout the growing season, so it pays to do some serious planning before you start the planting."
Holman recommends that homeowners begin by making a rough sketch of their property to show the location of buildings, power lines, underground utilities and existing plants. This makes it easier to determine the best locations for trees.
Where a tree is put is a major consideration in planting, Holman says. The mature size and spread of a tree should be anticipated to prevent future conflicts between branches and overhead power lines or roots and underground utilities. For energy conservation benefits, deciduous trees are best planted to the east or west of a house, providing shade in the summer, but allowing sunlight through during winter. Evergreens planted to the north and west of a home can provide shelter from prevailing winds.
Proper tree selection is another important aspect of a successful re-planting effort, Holman says. Species native to an area are more likely to thrive there than other types of trees. Healthy stock purchased from a reputable nursery may be a better investment than less expensive saplings bought from other sources. One should also consider soil characteristics, drainage and the amount of sunlight needed when choosing trees for a particular site.
How the tree is planted and subsequently cared for can also make a critical difference, Holman says. Planting too deeply, for instance, is a common cause of tree decline and death. Adding woodchip mulch around the tree can conserve moisture, inhibit weeds and protect the trunk from lawnmowers and weed whips. Providing the equivalent of one inch of rainfall each week will help assure that the tree thrives.
"Planting a tree is a little more complicated that picking up whatever's on sale at your local discount garden retailer and plopping it into a hole," says Holman. "For the best results, look over your site, select sound specimens of the right kind of trees, and make sure you know the right way to plant them."
Homeowners wanting more details on proper tree selection and planting techniques can contact their area DNR forester, county extension office or soil and water conservation district. A variety of free informational brochures and booklets are available. The members of the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association also have several publications.
