How to plant a tree

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?

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.

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.).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.