Planting a tree is a really joyful thing, but if your tree is being planted in an area of compacted, clay soil, it could really struggle. In this article, we briefly discuss how to go about planting your next tree if your soil is not so soily.

Proper Tree Selection

The first thing to consider if you have more compacted, clay like soil is your tree selection. The easiest way to ensure you’re getting the right tree for the area is to consult an arborist.

Nebraska Forest Service’s article “Avoiding the Top 10 Mistakes of Tree Planting” by Eric Berg and Tim McDonnell offers another easy tip: look around your neighborhood to see what’s thriving and what isn’t. If you’re unsure what tree species is what, take pictures.

One further tip is to select native trees. This is not only idea for tree survival as they’re more adapted to the area, but helps your regional environment.

Proper Digging

Whether planting a container-started tree or a root ball tree, proper planting begins with a proper dig.

Before digging, be sure you have had your property inspected marked for utilities.

When it comes to the hole, make sure it’s 2-3 times the diameter of the container or root ball. Form a concave hole – sort of saucer shaped. The wider hole will allow more room for eventual root spread.

Ensure the depth of the hole matches the height of the root ball or container. In some cases, it’s ok to have the hole an inch or two shallower than the root ball or container.

New Tree Placement and Backfilling

Proper Balled-and-Burlapped (Root Ball) Tree Placement and Unpacking

Place your balled-and-burlapped tree in the center of the hole. Cut away any wires and remove the burlap. Once your tree is placed and steady, back fill with excavated dirt (in some cases you’ll want to use amended dirt) up to the root collar of the tree.

It’s important to mulch over the spot in order to hold in moisture. When mulching, be sure it’s cratered so that it directs water toward the roots and trunk of your newly planted tree.

Proper Container Tree Placement and Unpacking

When you’re ready to plant your tree, tap at the sides of the container to loosen the soil.

Next, cut an X going down the length of the shaped dirt as well as along the underneath. You’ll want to use a good knife for this.

Carefully place your tree in the center of the hole, and begin filling the area with excavated dirt. Make sure only to fill the dirt up to the root collar of the tree.

Just like with balled-and-burlapped trees, lay mulch around your container planted tree in a concave fashion that preserves moisture and directs it toward the center and roots of the tree.

Proper Tree Watering

With clay-like soil, water absorption isn’t always properly distributed. Too much watering can lead to root-rot because compacted soil doesn’t easily absorb water.

When you initially plant your tree, water it the first day, and then again on the second day. Wait three days to water it again. During the first month only every three days.

During dry spells, water your tree every seven – ten days. Please note, however, container started trees will need more water than balled-and-burlapped started trees.