Deciduous trees are available commercially either as container plants or as bare-root young plants. The specific planting recommendations for individual species and varieties may vary, but the following tips are universal and can be applied to almost all trees.
How do I plant a deciduous tree correctly?
To properly plant a deciduous tree, you have to loosen the soil, dig a planting pit, insert wood, leave the ball rope, mix the excavated soil with compost, add soil, water the tree heavily, mulch the tree disc and tie the tree to a post.
The best planting time
Trees and shrubs grown in pots or containers can be planted all year round as long as the root ball is well rooted. On the other hand, trees grown outdoors, regardless of whether they have root balls or bare roots, should only be planted outside the vegetation phase. It is best to plant summer green deciduous trees in the ground immediately after the leaves have fallen. Plant evergreen deciduous trees as early as possible in autumn so that they can form new roots before winter.
Planting a deciduous tree – instructions
Before planting, the soil must be thoroughly and deeply loosened and, if necessary, improved with compost etc. The deciduous trees must be in the ground with wet roots, which is why it is best to place them in a bucket of water beforehand. The soil itself, however, must neither be wet nor compacted. It continues as follows:
- Dig a planting pit at least twice the size of the ball.
- Insert the tree, but not deeper than it was before.
- Any existing bale line will not be removed.
- Mix the excavated soil with compost and fill it in.
- When stepping on the soil, be careful not to damage the bale.
- Water the newly planted tree vigorously.
- Cover the tree disc with organic material.
Pour vigorously
A watering edge should be created, especially for solitary trees, as this enables targeted watering. After planting, the tree is watered so heavily that the cavities between the roots are closed. This is the only way they maintain a good connection to the soil and do not dry out.
Mulch tree slices to prevent drying out
Subsequent mulching with organic material (e.g. bark mulch or grass clippings) also supports the tree in forming new roots. The soil stays moist longer and needs to be watered less frequently, and the soil can warm up more quickly and remains well ventilated.
Tying the tree to a tree post
One final measure when planting a tree is tying the tree to a post. This must be driven into solid ground so that it is stable. Ideally, it is the same as the trunk and does not extend into the crown. You can also secure large solitary trees with three tree posts connected to each other. To tie, use a natural material, such as a sisal rope or a piece of raffia.
Tip
Pruning should be done during planting.