Why Plant a Tree

Take a look below to learn out about the benefits of trees, how to choose the right tree for your space, and how to properly plant your tree.

Planting Landscape Trees

Preparing the Hole
Dig the hole as deep as the root ball, and 2 to 3 times as wide as the diameter of the root ball. Breaking up the soil around and under the tree provides the newly emerging roots room to grow into loose soil to hasten establishment.

Placing your Tree
Place the tree carefully in the center of the hole after removing it from the container. The tree’s root collar (the bulge right above the root system) should be just above the top of the soil.

Filling the Hole
Carefully fill the hole with the soil when the tree is positioned and straight. Backfill the soil to the height just below the root collar.

Mulching the Tree
Place 2 to 4 inches of hardwood chips or other organic mulch in a 2 to 3 foot circle around the tree, leaving the root collar clear of mulch.

Watering the Tree
Water the tree well as soon as you plant it. Water the tree well at least once a week for the first year after planting. The watering schedule should be adjusted accordingly if it rains or is very dry.

Benefits of Trees

• Improve air quality
• Reduce stormwater runoff and erosion
• Modify local climate
• Create a habitat and provide food and shelter for wildlife
• Contribute to the conservation of biodiversity
• Serve as screens and buffers

• Conserve energy
• Increase property values
• Help the overall economy

How to Choose a Tree

• Space constraints
• Street tree requirements
• Utility lines (electric, gas, water, sewer, cable and telephone)
• Structures (homes, sidewalks and fences)
• Soil and drainage
• Exposure (sun and wind)

• Function and landscape value
• Growth habit (form and size)
• Growth rate
• Culture (aspect, soil type and pH, drainage)
• Native range and habit
• Deciduous/evergreen
• Disease and insect resistance
• Hardiness zone
• Human activity