Thinking about adding a tree to your outdoor space? The ideal time for planting is between autumn and spring, provided the ground isn't frozen or overly wet.

 

Head to your local garden center, pick out a tree, and follow our straightforward step-by-step guide to ensure your tree thrives!

 

Equipment Needed

• Bare-root tree (or containerised)
• Digging fork
• Digging spade
• Watering can or hose
• Tree guard (optional)
• Tree & Shrub Compost
• Tree stake
• Tree ties

 

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

 

Step 1: Dig a Hole

 

Using a digging spade, create a hole that matches the depth of your tree's rootball and is three times its width.

 

Top Tip: Soak the rootball in a bucket of water and use a digging fork to loosen tightly packed roots, encouraging them to spread out into the soil.

 

 

 

Step 2: Add some Tree Compost

 

Enhance the soil's nutrients by adding a specialist tree and shrub compost to the bottom of the hole to give your tree the best start. 

 

 

 

Step 3: Position the Tree

 

Place the tree in the planting hole to ensure the depth and width are correct. Use a cane across the hole to confirm the top of the rootball is level with the soil surface.

 

 

 

Step 4: Refill the Hole

 

Once satisfied with the tree's positioning, backfill around the rootball with the tree compost. Slightly shake the tree to help the soil settle around the roots. Gently press around the rootball with your heel to firm the roots and soil together. Fill the hole to ground level and firm the soil down again with your foot.

 

 

 

Step 5: Water and Mulch

 

(Optional) Add more compost around the base of the trunk for an extra nutritional boost. Water the tree thoroughly.

 

 

Step 6: Stake and Tie the Tree

 

Insert a tree stake into the soil for additional support and secure it with a tree tie. This helps stabilize the trunk and rootball, allowing the roots to establish firmly.

You can also add a tree guard to protect the trunk from small animals.

 

 

 

Aftercare

 

• Regularly water your tree, especially during dry periods, for the first couple of years to ensure adequate root hydration.
• Top up the soil with mulch a few times a year to provide essential nutrients for continued growth.
• Loosen the tree tie as the trunk expands. Remove the stake and tie after 2-3 years, once the tree is firmly rooted.