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1. To plant a tree, start by digging a hole that is 6-8 inches wider than the root ball of the tree. The depth of the hole should be such that the top of the root ball will be slightly higher than ground level.
2. If it is in a container, remove it from the container before planting. If the tree is balled and burlaped, leave the wire basket on.
3. Before placing the tree in the hole, sprinkle Myke Tree and Shrub on the root ball.
4. Next, place the plant in the hole and backfill around it using a mixture of Cotton Boll Compost and soil. Use a ratio of 1/4 compost to 3/4 soil. Tamp the soil to eliminate any air pockets.
5. Make sure to remove all twine and burlap from around the trunk and the top of the root ball. Leave the burlap and wire basket on.
6. Finally, water the tree with a mix of Bonide Root & Grow and water. This will help the tree establish its roots. Dig a hole deep enough so that the top of the root ball will be 2 to 3 inches higher than the surrounding soil. It should be 6 to 8 inches wider on each side of the root ball.
Watering
On average, give your new tree or shrub a slow, deep soaking once a week. However, your watering frequency will vary due to the following conditions.
• Rainfall and Irrigation: Consider the amount of water rainfall and irrigation systems provide.
• Time of Year: Plants need more frequent watering in the heat of summer than in spring and fall’s cooler weather.
• Soil Type: Sandy soil requires more frequent watering than clay soil.
• Plant Type: Container-grown plants often need more frequent watering than balled and burlapped plants.
Newly planted trees require approximately 10 gallons of water per week applied slowly. For larger trees, add 10 gallons for every inch of trunk diameter above 2 inches. For sandy soil, split the watering into two sessions, 3-4 days apart.
Check the soil moisture regularly using a probe, screwdriver, or knife, and adjust the watering frequency accordingly. Overwatering is just as harmful as underwatering, so be cautious.
In the winter, water your plants once or twice a month during warm spells.
Staking – We believe it is best not to stake most trees, so this service is not included in the price of planting.
Fertilizing – During the first year, use Bonide Root and Grow once a month during the growing season. After one year, fertilize once in the spring and once in the fall with Fertilome Tree and Shrub Food.
Tree Wrap – Wrap the trunks of newly planted maples during the winter months to prevent sun-scald.
Plant Problems
If you have questions or concerns about your plants, give us a call at 316-686-7491.