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Planting Trees and
Shrubs
 If you're planting new trees and shrubs this
spring, don't spoil them by enriching the soil with organic matter.
A hole full of compost and soft organic matter is a comfortable area
for the roots, and they aren't likely to spread into the surrounding
soil. If the roots don't anchor themselves firmly by spreading, the
plant is likely to be toppled by strong winds. Here are a few other
tips on planting trees and shrubs:
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Labels attached to your plant by wires can girdle the
branch, so remove them when you plant.
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Set the tree in the soil at the same level that it grew in
the nursery. Look for a dark mark on the trunk that indicates the
depth.
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To protect the trunk from sunscald, rodents, and lawnmower
nicks, use a treewrap from soil level to the lowest branch.
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If you use mulch, don't allow it to touch the trunk of the
tree.
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Check your plant from all angles to see that it is sitting
straight before filling the hole.
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Stakes often cause more damage than they prevent, so use
them only when planting in a windy, unprotected area, or if you
are planting a top-heavy tree. If you use a stake, leave an inch
or two of slack in the wire and cover the part that encircles the
tree with a protective covering.
From
GardenGuides.com
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