Skip to main content
Bunnings Warehouse

How to plant a tree

Close up of an outdoor plant.

Overview

Trees play an important role in our environment and communities, and have a huge impact on our everyday life. When it comes to planting your own tree, there are a few things to consider, including selecting and preparing the right spot, the best time to plant it and what you can do to give your tree the best chance to thrive.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Choose your tree type

    When choosing a tree for your space, it’s important to consider what size tree you want, and the conditions you’re working with. For example – how much sun and water will your tree need? What size garden do you have and what are the soil conditions? What future maintenance will it require?

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: If you have any questions, head in-store and speak with one of our helpful Team Members.
    A woman reading the label of a plant.
  2. 2

    Consider the right time to plant

    The best time to plant a tree is during autumn when the soil is moist, and the temperatures aren’t extreme. This allows the tree to establish roots more easily, giving it a strong foundation to grow well when spring arrives.

    A person touching the soil.
  3. 3

    Choose the right position for the tree

    To choose the right position for your tree, consider the species, size, and the shape of the tree at maturity. Determine what sunlight and shade the tree will need, and whether there will be any obstacles or hazards (present or future) to the tree’s growth You’ll also want to consider its purpose – is there anything in particular you want to use it for? (For example, shade, screening, fruit, etc.).

    Close up of an outdoor plant.
  4. 4

    Dig a hole twice the size of the pot

    Remove all existing grass, plants and weeds that may compete with your new tree for water and nutrients needed for growth. Once this is done, take your shovel and dig a hole that’s twice as wide and slightly deeper than the size of the tree’s root-ball.

    Check to see if the tree fits by placing it gently into the hole and dig more or backfill accordingly.

    A person digging a hole using a shovel.
  5. 5

    Add compost, manure, or fertilise

    Once the hole is the right size, consider enriching the existing soil with nutrients. Blend the soil you dug out with premium compost, cow manure, planting additive or fertiliser. When you put the soil mix back in, it will be the best soil possible for the new tree to establish its roots in.

    Close up of compost, manure and fertilizer products.
  6. 6

    Plant the tree

    To remove your tree from its pot, tip the container onto its side and slide the tree out. Lift the tree from its root mass (not its trunk) and gently place the tree into the hole. Take a step back and make sure the tree is straight before filling the hole with soil. Gently press the soil down to remove any air pockets as you go.

    A woman planting a tree.
  7. 7

    Add fertiliser

    Once you’ve planted the tree, it’s helpful to enrich the soil further with some slow-release fertiliser. This helps to control the steady release of nutrients into the soil to help your tree grow. Spread some around the base of your tree, but not too close to the trunk.

    A woman applying fertilizer to the plant.
  8. 8

    Stake the tree

    Stakes help support your tree to ensure it grows sturdy and straight. Use two or three stakes depending on the level of support your tree needs. Place stakes on either side of the tree, leaving enough space between them and the trunk to avoid damage to the roots. With a hammer or mallet, drive the stakes into the ground until they’re deep enough to stabilise the tree. Use hessian webbing, bicycle inner tubes or old pantyhose to create a loop between each stake and the tree. Secure the loops by tying them off or using a staple gun. If you’re using three stakes, we suggest opting for a triangle formation.

    A woman placing stakes on either side of the tree.
  9. 9

    Add mulch and water

    Mulch will help to retain moisture and keep the roots safe from any harsh weather conditions. Leaving a 50mm space away from the tree trunk, spread a layer of mulch approximately 40mm thick. Make sure to water your tree once a week, or according to the care instructions provided with your tree.  

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Create a dam around the tree with extra soil to ensure it gets plenty of water to drink.
    A person adding mulch around the tree.
  10. 10

    Looking to spruce up your garden with a statement tree?

    Check out our guide on how to choose a feature tree for your garden.

Logo - Workshop - Bunnings Branded - Transparent
Icon - Website - Workshop lightbulbGet InspiredQuestionsAsk QuestionsSpeech bubblesShare Projects
Bunnings Workshop is an online community for D.I.Y. and gardening discussion. Get your questions answered at workshop.bunnings.com.au
link-outJoin the discussion

Get inspired by projects from the Bunnings Workshop community

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.