Planting and Feeding Shade, Fruit and Ornamental Trees

The tree you plant today is a lifetime investment. Healthy trees increase property value and beautify your surroundings. If planned, planted, and cared for properly, you can enjoy your new tree for years.

Selecting a Tree

Inspect the tree thoroughly before buying. Be certain there is sufficient root mass. Also, inspect the trunk looking for signs of mechanical damage or poorly-healed pruning scars. Finally, be certain the tree has a desirable form with strong, well-spaced branches. Your local nursery or garden center can help you to select a quality tree that will provide years of enjoyment.

Planting

Be certain that the tree you are planting is appropriate in size and shape for the desired location, taking into account the size it will reach at maturity. When planting, the nurseryman's advice is: "It's better to put a $100 tree in a $200 hole than to put a $200 tree in a $100 hole." Dig the hole at least three times the size of the root mass. Discard one third of the soil from the hole and replace with peat moss or compost. Add Tree-Tone to the new soil mix and blend well (application rates are on the bag and vary according to the size of the tree). Using the soil mark on the trunk as a guide, set the tree in the hole so that it will be at the same depth that it was prior to being unearthed. Refill the hole half way and water to settle the soil. Replace the balance of the soil, water, and pack firmly. It is sometimes desirable to brace the newly planted tree with stakes and guide wires. Your local garden center will be able to supply the necessary tools to do this.

Feeding

Tree-Tone by Espoma is a complete plant food. It contains all major, minor, and trace nutrients your trees require for best growth. Small trees can be fed simply by spreading the Tree-Tone on the ground as wide as the branch spread. Larger trees are best fed by placing the Tree-Tone underground near the roots. Make a series of holes under the branch spread, starting one third of the distance out from the trunk and extending a like distance beyond the branch line. Holes should be 2 to 3 inches in diameter, 2 to 3 feet apart, and 12 to 18 inches deep. They can be made with an iron bar or with an auger. Divide the Tree-Tone evenly among the holes, refill with soil, and water thoroughly.