Handle the root ball
carefully. Breaking it will injure the roots.
Dig the hole about 6
- 8" wider than the root ball.
If planting in sand, the depth should be the same level that it was
grown in. When plating in clay, the root ball should be placed on a 4-6"
bed of gravel to minimize drainage problems. Planting on a bed of
gravel will give some excess water a place to settle. If you are
planting in heavy clay, plant the ball about 2" above the surrounding
soil while grading a slope to drain excess water away.
Cut all twine from
around the trunk
AFTER all handling and backfilling with good topsoil of the tree
is done. (The wire basket and burlap should remain around the root ball)
Stake to hold tree upright.
Backfilling with
good
topsoil.
In sand use the extra soil to make a dike out at the drip line to
contain the water. Water about once a week, depending on rainfall
and temperature. When planting in sandy soils some mulch will help
retain soil moisture.
In clay, water at
planting time to settle the soil. Use judgment as to the need for a
dike to contain water. Depends on soil conditions. Check
moisture in the ball weekly and water as necessary. DON'T OVERWATER
You
may fertilize but be careful with soluble fertilizers. Use
12-12-12 at 4 oz. to a 6 foot tree and spread evenly around the drip
line. Over fertilization can cause a toxic reaction. It is
safer to use a slow release fertilizer.
