Tree Planting in Minnesota
Proper tree planting should be considered the most important process that an arborist can handle. Selecting the proper tree type, size and location can have a major impact on short and long-term survival. Planting at the correct depth is an extremely important factor that is often overlooked and misunderstood. Planting at the correct depth and watering for the first year will have a crucial role in tree survival.
Cost saving tip from The BIG Oak =
Larger trees are more expensive to plant, have more planting stress and are often outperformed by smaller trees. Paying an extra $200 for 1 extra inch of trunk is often not worth it. Have patience, save money and plant smaller trees. They will establish quicker and will often outgrow a slightly larger tree in a few years anyway.
5 Keys for Tree Planting
Right tree for the right site.
Think about tree diversity. Diversity buffers landscapes against tree insect and disease issues.
Do NOT plant too deep.
Dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball (once again, do not dig deep).
Improper watering is the #1 reason trees do not survive their first year.
Bonus planting info from The BIG Oak =
While Colorado (blue) spruce trees look attractive, they are not adapted to the humidity in Minnesota and will eventually be suspect to fungal disease concerns. Instead, plant fir, cedar, pine or other spruce varieties with less eventual problems.
Maple trees are heavily overplanted and often have issues with stem girdling roots and poor upright branching structure (Autumn Blaze maple). While we all enjoy their beautiful fall foliage but please limit the number of maple trees that are planted.