Trees are essential to our environment as they provide us with oxygen, clean air, and offer habitats for wildlife and various plant species. Proper tree planting is also crucial in ensuring the longevity of trees and preventing damage to surrounding areas. Being able to properly select and plant a tree can go a long way, as this step is crucial to a plant’s long-term health. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of planting trees, the best time to plant a tree, how to select a specimen, and the proper process of tree planting.
Benefits of Tree Planting:
Planting trees comes with numerous benefits. Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, thereby reducing air pollutants and improving air quality. An increase in green cover also creates a cooler environment, which reduces heat island effects in urban areas. Trees also provide habitats for wildlife and filter water which reduces erosion and preserves the quality of soil and water bodies.
When to Plant a Tree:
When is the best time to plant trees? For most tree species, the dormant season is a good time plant. Typically, this period falls between late fall and early spring when trees are inactive. Planting during this season allows trees to establish their root system and prepare for the upcoming growing season. However, it’s crucial to avoid planting during extreme weather conditions as it can be detrimental to the tree’s growth and survival.
How to Select a Tree:
Photo credit: James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org
When selecting a tree species, it’s essential to consider the environment, the intended purpose of the tree, and the available space. First, assess the soil type and acidity, the sun-exposure, and the presence of any potential obstructions such as water lines, power lines, or buildings. If you want shade and have adequate space, select a larger canopy tree like Oak as it will provide the most shade. When selecting a specimen from the nursery, avoid plants with insect and disease-related damage, girdling roots, and poor structure.
How to Properly Plant a Tree
Before planting a tree, it’s advisable to prepare the soil by removing any debris, weeds or sod, and breaking up the soil. Next, dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the roots. It’s important to avoid planting too deeply. Remove the tree from its container and place it in the hole. Straighten the tree and ensure the root flare is visible at the soil’s surface. Fill in the hole with soil and water generously to settle the dirt. Finally, add a thin layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture.
In summary, planting trees comes with benefits that are crucial to our environment. Proper tree planting requires knowledge, foresight, and patience, which are vital in ensuring we preserve our environment for generations to come. Knowing the best time to plant trees and the selection process for a specimen can make a significant impact on the growth and longevity of our trees. Once a tree is planted, it’s important to maintain it through proper watering, regular monitoring, and pruning.
