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One Million Trees

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Right Tree, Right Place

Plant

Printable planting instructions and diagram (PDF)

The first step to successful tree plantings is to Dig Big! A wide shallow hole is required to allow the tree roots to grow and expand. Remember, most of a tree's growth is below ground, and trees don't grow like carrots. Roots need room to spread out, which is why trees planted in restricted areas, like parking strips, have much shorter lifespans.

Tree planting
  1. The top of the root ball should be at or slightly above ground level. Do not pile soil on top of the root ball. Roots should be covered with soil.
  2. Place the root ball on undisturbed soil. 
  3. Remove packing material from balled and burlap trees including all the twine, wire, and as much burlap as possible. Any burlap you cannot remove without damaging the roots should be pulled down to the bottom of the root ball.
  4. Water as you fill in the planting hole.
  5. Create a ring around the root ball away from the trunk to capture and direct water to the roots.
  6. Add a 3-4 inch deep layer of mulch over the entire planting area but keep it at least 4 inches from the trunk.
  7. Stake only if neccessary in high wind areas or if the tree is in a vulnerable location. Remove all staking by the end of the second growing year. 

USU Extension Services tree planting information
USU Extension planting, pruning, and fertilizing information

 

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