How to plant a tree? - Scotts Fafard

Often used as focal points in our landscaping, trees not only enhance the beauty of a home or neighbourhood, but also provide a host of benefits for humans and the planet. They play a crucial role for the environment. There are many good reasons to plant a tree at home. Here are some tips to guide you:

Which tree to choose?

When it comes to ornamental trees, there is no shortage of choice! In addition to the purely aesthetic aspect (you must obviously like your tree!), check to see if you have chosen a variety that is suitable for your type of soil, the amount of sunshine and that is adapted to our climate. The better your aim, the less care you’ll need to take.

Also, think about how wide, tall and shaped your tree will be in 10, 25 or 50 years. Staying away from drainage pipes and electrical wires can save you a lot of trouble. You’ll thank yourself later…

When to plant?

In principle, any time. However, trees are living beings for whom a shock of temperature can cause some inconveniences. Yours will therefore have a better chance of coming out of it unscathed if it is planted in spring or fall. Moreover, water is more abundant in the soil at these times of the year.

How to plant?

The best way to avoid mistakes is to proceed methodically. We invite you to follow these easy steps:

Be sure not to bump or damage the tree during transport. (Damaging the bark will draw out the sap and may cause rotting problems).
Stir the bottom to facilitate the development of the root system and add a layer of FLOWER+TREE+SHRUB 3/1 Planting mix. Dig a hole about twice as wide and about as deep as the root ball.
Gently place the tree in the hole, making sure that the collar of the root ball is equal to or slightly above the depth of the hole.
Add Natural Fertilizer PLANTER STARTER WITH BONE MEAL around the root ball to stimulate the biological activity of the soil and thus promote abundant and vigorous roots.
Add FLOWER+TREE+SHRUB 3/1 Planting mix up to the collar (the junction between the roots and the trunk) to obtain a 2X faster growth and promote a better recovery after transplanting. Compact slightly.
Make a watering pit (dike about 10 to 15 cm high around the root ball) and water generously so that the soil at the bottom of the hole and the root ball is completely wet.
Add your favourite mulch. A good mulch of natural, brown, red or black cedar (your choice), will keep some moisture in the soil and control weed growth (plus it looks good!).
If necessary, plant a stake in the root ball, even deeper than the hole on the side from which the prevailing wind comes, to hold the tree properly while it grows. You can remove it in about a year, once the tree is well established and its root system is set.

What about fertilization?

We recommend adding compost to the soil surface every 2 or 3 years to support their needs. Whether you have newly planted or well-established trees, the best time to fertilize them is in early spring, before active growth begins. Fall is also a good time to apply fertilizer, as this helps them recover from the growing season and prepare for the rigours of winter. Young trees with a trunk diameter of less than 15 cm can particularly benefit from regular applications of Tree and Shrub Natural Fertilizer. Simply add some at the base of the trunk every 4 weeks.

As you probably know, trees are the pillars of any landscape design. Now it’s up to you to enhance them with matching plants and flowers. And we can help you with that too!

Visit one of our retailers to find everything you need. See you soon!