Common Tree Planting Mistakes Homeowners Make
Planting a tree feels wonderfully simple. Dig a hole, drop in the tree, add soil, and wait for shade. Except trees are not patio furniture. They grow, spread, and quietly claim more territory every year. A little planning at planting time can spare a homeowner a great deal of pruning, repair, and regret later.
Choosing the Wrong Spot
One of the most common tree planting mistakes is choosing a location based on how the tree looks today. A young maple may seem perfectly proportioned beside the house. Give it twenty years, however, and those branches may be crowding the roof. Roots can also spread well beyond the trunk, so the planting area needs room for the whole tree. Look upward and downward before digging. Check nearby buildings, fences, driveways, utility lines, and existing plants. Think about mature height and canopy width rather than the little nursery specimen in front of you. A tree should have enough elbow room to grow without becoming a future household argument.
Digging a Hole That Is Too Deep
Another frequent error is digging a hole that resembles a well. It seems logical that a larger hole means a happier tree, but excessive depth can cause serious problems. The root flare should generally remain visible above the surrounding soil rather than being buried under several inches of dirt. Roots need access to oxygen, and compacted or waterlogged soil can make that difficult. The hole should generally be wider than the root ball, giving new roots …
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