Tree Planting Practices an Overview
Figure 1. Select tree with a form and shape that compliments all the use of the landscape and does not adversely impact surrounding plant material, turf, pedestrians, signage, or hardscape elements. Solid line indicates planting hole, broken line indicates area of fractured soil.
Figure 2. It is not necessary to remove the bottom of the box. The bottom of the box should sit on undisturbed soil and the crown of the tree should be about 2" to 4" above the finished grade.
Figure 3. Leaving tree slightly above grade insures that if rootball settles that crown will remain at or above grade.
Figure 4. Where it is not cost effective to dig a wider planting hole, fracture soil to promote root development.
Figure 5. Fractured soil improves water penetration and root distribution.
Diagram 1. Arrangement of irrigation emitters in a concentric pattern, starting at the trunk and extending to the edge of the leaf canopy.
Figure 6. Back fill with the soil removed from the hole to create a good interface between the rootball and the surrounding undisturbed soil.
Figure 7A. For well rooted container grown trees and prior years field dug trees prune away 1/4 to 3/4" of the outer edge of the rootball removing any matted, kinked and circling roots.
Figure 7B. Cut bottom band first.
Figure 8. Cut the middle band second.
Figure 9. Cut vertical bands next.
Figure 10. It is not necessary to remove the bottom of the box.
Figure 11. Cut the top most band last.
Figure 12. Remove strap.
Figure 13. Remove box sides, one at a time.
Figure 14. When all 4 are removed, complete backfilling the hole.
Figure 15. Using the shovel handle, periodically tamp the backfill to remove air pockets.
Figure 16. Continue compacting the backfill until you reach the finished grade.
Figure 17. Set-up a temporary tree well for the initial 1st and 2nd deep irrigations to help further settle the back fill.
Figure 18. Deep irrigations allow surface applied fertilizer to penetrate into the rootball.
*For the complete version of this article visit the Full Desktop Site*
Disclaimer: The information provided here was gathered from research literature published by the University of Arizona, other professional Landscape and Horticultural organizations and our experience at Arid Zone Trees. Always consult local landscape experts for recommendation for your specific area.
© Copyright 2000-2015 Arid Zone Trees
