How to Plant a Tree

Spring and fall are the best times of the year to plant trees. Whether you are planting a 12-inch tall seedling or an eight-foot tall tree, the basics are the same:


  • Carefully prepare the hole where the tree is to be planted. Water the area the day before to make digging easy.

  • Dig the hole the same depth as the root ball, and twice its width.

  • Gently place the tree in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil-do not bury the tree trunk deeper than this.

  • Water the tree once it is planted.

  • Add about two-inches of your favorite organice mulch, such as wood chips, around the tree to conserve moisture and help prevent grass and weed growth. Don't let the mulch contact the tree trunk.