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How to care for your newly planted tree
So now you have a new tree! Now what?
Your new tree has been growing in an environment that is probably different that where it has been newly planted. The sunlight, PH levels in your soil, minerals in your soil, the amount of moisture daily, temperature, and humidity all changed suddenly for your new tree. Your tree is now having some level of stress. How well you monitor it and care for it is important in these first crucial months for the greatest chance of survivability.
Transplant Shock
Most newly planted trees are subject to stress-related problems due to tremendous root loss when dug at the nursery or from simply the change in its environment is enough to shock your new tree. This condition, commonly called transplant shock, results in increased vulnerability to drought, insects, diseases and other problems. To a greater or lesser degree, transplant shock lasts until the tree has adapted to its new home. Your new tree need to establish its roots into its new home in order to thrive and grow
Your tree’s chance of survival can be drastically improved through practices that favor establishment of the root system. This involves regular care during the first three years following transplanting.
For an undisturbed, healthy tree, the root system is normally very shallow. Even the major structural roots grow almost horizontally. The root system normally extends far beyond the branch spread, and fine roots that absorb water and nutrients are located very near the soil surface, usually in the top four to ten inches. A natural balance exists between the roots (where water is absorbed) and the top of the tree (where water is utilized and transpired to the atmosphere).
Initial root development of a newly planted tree is supported by energy (carbohydrates) stored within the trunk, branch, and root tissues. Continued root growth during the establishment period depends on the leaves of the tree producing high levels of carbohydrates during the growing season, especially during the first year following transplanting.
For this reason, pruning newly planted trees to compensate for root loss is not recommended. Leave the entire top intact to favor rapid development of a supporting root system. Top pruning should be restricted to removing broken and damaged branches and developing a good tree structure.
Supplemental watering is critical to avoiding moisture stress.
Proper tree and site selection are the first critical steps to successfully planting trees. Trees planted on inappropriate sites or in poor soils may never regain their proper balance. However, if the tree and the site are properly matched, successful transplanting can be achieved with good planting procedures and regular maintenance following transplanting. Both are essential to minimize the establishment period and the stresses that make trees susceptible to attack by insects and disease pests.
Be careful not to overwater:
Urban planting sites typically have dense, compacted subsoils with little or no topsoil. Water cannot easily infiltrate compacted soils and, with heavy rains or overwatering, may remain for long periods in the loose soil in the planting hole. In excessively wet soil, oxygen is unavailable in sufficient amounts to support root growth.
Trees planted in compacted or wet soils must develop fine root systems near the soil surface where oxygen is most available. Remember, overwatering can reduce soil air space, lowering oxygen availability, and that can be just as stressful as drought.
Be careful not to underwater:
Soil moisture is especially important during the first three years following transplanting. Studies have shown that the carbohydrate levels critical for root generation are not lowered if transplanted trees are adequately watered. Two inches of water each week for the first season is a good rule of thumb, but monitoring soil moisture and applying water as needed is preferable.
A tree's active roots are within the top 12 inches of soil, a good way to measure how much you water is to put a sprinkler beneath the tree. Then, place a coffee or soup can close by and run the sprinkler until 2 inches of water has collected in the can. Be sure to water the entire root zone beneath the tree canopy. The best time to water is typically in the morning.
Mulching
Mulching a large area around newly planted trees with 3 to 4 inches of wood chips or bark also conserves soil moisture and moderates soil temperatures. Mulch also inhibits the growth of grass. Grass roots can present serious competition to the fine absorbing root system of trees, since they all grow in the top four to six inches of soil. It is imperitive you do not mulch next to the main stem.
Fertilizer
Do not use fertilizer, potting soil, or chemicals on your newly planted trees. Such products will kill your young or newly planted tree.
Summary
It is easier to successfully establish smaller trees than larger trees. Regardless of size, newly planted trees experience a period of transplant shock during which they are highly vulnerable to stress. Through proper planting and regular early care directed at rapid root development, the period of transplant shock can be shortened and the probability of survival greatly increased.
Since we cannot control or monitor how much you water your newly planted tree, we cannot guarantee the survival of your tree. If you notice leaf drop, yellow leaves or wilted leaves in the first two months of planting, call us right away for a free assessment of your tree. Please note this free assessment only applies to trees we, Peterson’s Tree Works has planted for you within the first 6 months.