Trees, it is well known, are the lungs of the Earth. Thanks to their incredible capacity to filter pollutants and dust and to release oxygen, trees make an unprecedented contribution to the quality of air we breathe. In addition, they provide shady spots to rest, shelter for birds and other small animals and, for larger mature trees, become the tree house you dreamed of as a child.
How to choose your tree?
There are hundreds of varieties of trees and it is not always easy to make the right choice. Make sure you choose a tree variety that is adapted to your hardiness zone and the type of sunlight it will receive. Also, think about how you want to use your tree and don’t forget to expect it to grow, sometimes a lot!
Be sure to ask about the distance from electrical wires and the length of the roots at maturity, which will give you a good indication of where to plant your tree on your property. Although you may be placing it on your own property, it may be wise to discuss it with your neighbours… especially if it is planted on your property line and its branches and leaves could spill over onto your neighbour’s property!
If you choose a fruit tree, make sure that it is self-fertile to produce fruit or that it can be pollinated by another compatible fruit tree near you, otherwise you risk having a beautiful apple tree in bloom that does not produce any apples.
Your choice is made: plant now!
If you decide to plant your tree yourself, there are a series of steps to follow to maximize its establishment:
- Dig a hole 2 to 3 times the width of the pot or root ball and the same depth. Once the tree is in place, you want the root collar to be level with or slightly above the soil.
- Carefully lift the tree out of its pot or carefully remove the spindle basket that holds the roots or the burlap that covers the root ball. In the case of burlap, you can remove only the top half, the rest will quickly degrade in the soil.
- Place your tree upright in the center of the hole and backfill with good quality soil to which you have previously added mycorrhizae or a root fertilizer. Do not overcompact.
- Create a ridge of soil around your hole to create a watering hole.
- Add a good layer of mulch, 5 to 10 centimeters, to help preserve moisture. Be sure to leave about 5 cm free around the trunk.
- Water thoroughly immediately after planting and be sure to keep the soil moist in the following weeks.
- If your tree is exposed to the wind, you can add a stake to help it resist better. Don’t forget to remove the stake next year.
If you purchase a tree but cannot plant it right away, be sure to place it in a cool, shady area and gently water the roots to keep them moist. The sooner the better for planting.
Don’t feel like doing it yourself? We offer delivery and planting services for your trees, regardless of size. Ask one of our garden centre consultants for more information.
