When to Plant and Where

• The best time to plant a tree is in the early fall, which will give roots time to grow before winter cold arrives. You can also plant in early spring, which avoids the heat of summer. You'll need to pick a spot that is free of any objects that could block root growth, such as large, unmovable rocks or underground piping, for instance. You'll also need to know if your tree requires full sun, partial sun or no sun (most new trees have identifying tags that tell you how much sun it needs).
  
  

Planting the Tree

• With a shovel, dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball and not more than two inches deeper than the vertical height of the root ball. Use a one inch base of new topsoil before placing the tree inside the hole. The tree should stand straight from bottom to top. Adjust or tilt the tree until it is straight, then back-fill around the root ball to keep the tree in place. Most trees don't need stakes. But if the trunk is thin and fragile, place a stake on each side and secure to the trunk for the first year. Fill the remaining hole with topsoil. Pat down on the topsoil with your shovel to firm the dirt and keep the tree from moving. Add a two inch later of mulch on top of the soil and around the tree. The mulch will retain moisture and allow the roots to grow normally.
  
  

Caring for the Tree

• Once planted, lightly water the tree twice a day. But don't soak it. You don't want to drown your new roots. By the second week you can water every other day, usually in the early evening. You can also add a basic fertilizer to help with growth.