It is important that you know how to correctly plant trees in order to give them the best start in life. In this article we will give step by step instructions for planting container grown and bare root trees!

Planting Container Grown Trees

1. Digging the hole. If the soil quality is good you can dig a hole 25% wider than the rootball. You only need to dig a few centimetres deeper than the rootball to avoid planting the tree too deep. If you do this the tree can suffocates and ultimately fails. If the soil is poor quality it is a good idea to dig out a larger hole so that you can improve the soil quality before planting. Check out this article for advice on soil improvement.

2. Backfilling the hole. Once you have dug out the hole keep the excavated soil to one side and mix in some multi-purpose compost and organic matter (we recommend a 50:50 mix). Once you have removed the tree from its container, or bag, place the tree carefully into the planting pit to check the depth. Just add or take away soil if required. You can then backfill around the rootball with the soil mix.

3. Staking the tree. Staking and tying is an essential step after planting as it helps to support young trees as they establish. Correct staking will minimise root and stem movement while allowing slight flexibility for root growth and eventual independence. We also suggest using a buckle-type tree tie with a spacer between the stake and the tree stem. This adjustable tie accommodates stem expansion. Please ensure the tree tie is nailed or stapled to the stake to prevent twisting in windy conditions.

4. Water in your newly planted tree. Give the tree a good soak right after planting. This helps settle the soil and provides moisture for the roots.

Staking Options

Our value planting packs contain the essential accompaniments to support your planting projects. These packs are available with various stake sizes to suit your needs, including 1.8m (6ft) stakes with a 60mm diameter, as well as 2.1m (7ft) and 2.4m (8ft) stakes with a 75mm diameter.

For larger trees or windier locations, our heavy-duty planting kit may be a better option. This kit includes two tree stakes, a tree pad, a buckle tie, and a crossbar. It is available with 6ft, 7ft, or 8ft stake options.

Watch our step-by-step tree planting guide here!

Planting Bare Root Trees

1. Dig out the tree pit. Make sure the hole is large enough to accommodate the roots.

2. Mix some soil improver ready for back fill. Combining soil from the hole with soil improver or compost will help add nutrients and improve drainage (we usually recommend a 50:50 mix).

3. Put the stake in the ground. Place a sturdy stake next to where you’ll plant the tree and drive it firmly into the soil.

4. Plant the tree and backfill. Place the tree next to the stake and fill the hole around the roots using the soil and improver mix.

5. Heal the tree in firmly. Press the soil firmly but gently around the roots to keep the tree stable and ensure good root-soil contact.

6. Fix the buckle tie. Use a buckle tie to secure the tree to the stake. This keeps the tree upright and protects it from wind damage.

7. Add a mulch to prevent weed growth. Spread a layer of mulch around the base of the tree. Mulch helps retain moisture and stops weeds that compete for nutrients.

8. Water in your newly planted tree. Give the tree a good soak right after planting. This helps settle the soil and provides moisture for the roots.

After Care

Maintain a regular water schedule over the first few growing seasons to keep the soil moist. Hopefully this has helped to explain how to correctly plant trees. If you have any questions please contact us, or check out this article for more tree care tips!

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