Bringing Plants Home

Transport Tips: Handle carefully to avoid damaging roots or branches. Keep upright and shaded; protect the canopy from wind and leaves from drying out.

 

Timing: Plant as soon as possible. If delayed, store in a shaded location and water the root ball daily.

Choosing the Right Location

Light Requirements: Most shade trees prefer full sun (6+ hrs), but some like birch and dogwood tolerate part shade.

 

Space Considerations:

Consider the mature size—some trees spread 30–50 ft or more!

Keep clear of overhead wires, foundations, and septic systems.

Allow room for airflow and lawn/garden maintenance under and around the tree.

Soil Preparation

Soil Type: Most shade trees thrive in loamy, well-draining soil.

 

Amending Tips: Mix in compost or aged manure if your soil is poor. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers at planting.

 

Drainage: Avoid planting in low spots where water collects. Create raised beds or mounds if drainage is poor.

Digging the Hole

Depth & Width: Dig a hole 2–3x wider than the root ball, but only as deep as the root flare (where trunk meets roots).

 

Special Notes: Plant with the root flare visible above the soil—never bury the trunk.

Planting the Tree

Handling Tips: Remove containers, burlap, ropes, or wire cages. Loosen circling roots gently.

 

Backfilling: Use the original soil to avoid transplant shock. Water halfway through and again when full.

 

Mulching: Apply 2–4 inches of mulch around the base but keep it 6 inches away from the trunk (no mulch volcanoes!).

Watering

Initial Watering: Soak deeply right after planting to eliminate air pockets.

 

Ongoing Care:

First 1–2 years: Water deeply 1–2x per week, more during drought.

Established trees: Water during prolonged dry periods.

 

Tools: Use a soaker hose, tree watering bag, or slow trickle method for deep root hydration.

Feeding & Fertilizing

When to Start: Wait until the second year or when new growth appears.

 

Fertilizer Type: Use a slow-release tree fertilizer or a balanced blend like 10-10-10.

 

Frequency: Apply in early spring or late fall, once a year unless tree shows nutrient deficiency.

Staking & Support

When & Why: Stake only if the tree is unstable, top-heavy, or in a windy location.

 

Method: Use 2–3 stakes and soft ties. Allow for some movement. Remove after 1 growing season.

Pest & Disease Monitoring

Common Issues:

Aphids, borers, scale, caterpillars.

Leaf spots, anthracnose, powdery mildew, cankers.

 

Prevention Tips:

Promote air circulation by spacing trees properly.

Keep grass/mulch away from the trunk.

Avoid injury to the bark (which attracts pests).

Use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or dormant oil sprays when needed.

Deadheading & Pruning

When & How:

Late winter/early spring is best for shaping.

Remove dead, broken, or crossing branches anytime.

Avoid “topping” (cutting the top off)—it weakens the tree.

 

Purpose: Encourages strong structure, health, and safety.

Seasonal Care

Summer: Deep water during drought. Watch for leaf scorch or stress signs.

 

Fall: Remove fallen leaves to prevent fungal issues.

Apply mulch to protect roots.

 

Winter Protection:

Young trees may need burlap wraps or tree guards to protect from: Sunscald, Rodents/rabbits, Salt spray

Water until the ground freezes in late fall.

Hardy to Zone 5 in NB (check variety).

Overwintering

Young Trees: Wrap trunks with tree guards to prevent frost cracks or rodent damage.

 

Late-Season Plantings: Mulch heavily to insulate roots.

 

Salt Protection: If planted near roads, create a barrier or use salt-tolerant species.

Helpful Extras

Pollinator Value: Many flowering shade trees (like linden or maple) support bees and beneficial insects.

 

Lifespan: Shade trees are a long-term investment—many live 50–100+ years.

 

Growth Timeline:

Moderate growers: Maple, ash, honeylocust.

Fast growers: Poplar, willow (but often shorter-lived).

Slower but long-lived: Oak, beech.

Bonus – Shade Tree Add-Ons:

Deep watering is key. Surface watering encourages shallow roots.

 

Watch for girdling roots—especially in container-grown trees.

 

Don’t crowd under the tree with mulch or garden beds. Leave a clear area near the trunk.

 

Choose species wisely for your space: Think about height, spread, fall color, and invasiveness.