Tree Planting

Trees are a beautiful and valuable investment.  When they’re planted properly, many of them can live far beyond our human lifetimes, providing shade, beauty, and shape our environment for many years.  If planted incorrectly, trees can become a liability or die prematurely, both of which are a waste of our time and input.  Therefore, choose the right tree for the right place.

Also remember to consider the mature size of the tree. Depending on the species, the small sapling that is planted today can become a 40- to 80-foot giant someday, with a spread of 30 feet or more. Consider the following:

·         Distance to buildings

·         Proximity to neighboring properties

·         Overhead wires

·         Sidewalks/boulevards

·         Fire hydrants

·         Distance to corner

Tree planting in North Dakota is best done in early spring or late fall for bare-root, and through early fall for container-grown, with a focus on selecting hardy species.  Trees must be hardy enough to survive our North Dakota weather, especially the long, cold winters.  Key success factors include planting at the root collar depth, ensuring adequate water, and removing weed competition. 

 

Best Practices and Tips

• Call "811" before digging to check on buried utilities.
• Timing: Spring (early) and fall (late) are ideal. Fall planting (September–October) allows roots to settle before winter.
• Site Prep: Keep a grass free zone around the tree of 3-4 feet diameter.  Mulch, using the 3-3-3 rule - 3 inches depth of mulch in a 3-foot radius around the tree.  Leave a 3-inch space around the base of the tree trunk, preventing the mulch from touching the trunk, which can cause rot, bark decay, and insect infestation. 
• Depth: Plant at the same depth the tree grew in the nursery, specifically at the root collar (where the stem becomes roots).
• Watering: Supplemental watering is crucial, as water availability is the biggest factor in survival.  Watering should be consistent with the variety of the tree planted.