For new homeowners or beginner gardeners, adding a tree to your landscape can feel like a daunting task. Knowing which pitfalls to avoid can make the process smoother and more successful. Here are 10 of the most common tree planting and care mistakes we see here at our Northern Colorado nursery and tips on how to steer clear of them to help your tree thrive.
Poor Tree Selection
Choosing the right tree for your space is key to its success. Many tree deaths stem from selecting species that are incompatible with the site. Each tree has unique light, water, and soil needs. Selecting a tree that fits your landscape and climate can prevent issues down the line.
When choosing a location, consider the tree’s mature size. Many trees outgrow their initial planting spaces, causing issues with nearby structures, sidewalks, or power lines. Select a tree with its adult size in mind.
Improper Mulching
Mulch can do wonders, but only if used correctly. It suppresses weeds, retains soil moisture, and keeps lawnmowers at a distance. Rather than removing old mulch, just add a fresh layer on top—this way, decomposing mulch enriches the soil.
Avoid piling mulch in a “volcano” shape around the tree. Instead, create a ring with a crater around the tree base to allow air to reach the roots. And while rock mulch may look appealing, it heats up quickly and reflects light, which can stress the tree.
Watering Improperly
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes made by tree owners in Northern Colorado. Unlike turf grass, which thrives on frequent, shallow watering, trees require deep, infrequent watering. Your lawn irrigation system won’t suffice. Instead, use drip irrigation directly at the root ball, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. This method reduces water stress and promotes deeper, stronger root growth.
Ignoring Common Insects & Diseases
Certain trees are more susceptible to pests and diseases, and understanding these risks is crucial. For example, some diseases are abiotic, caused by environmental factors such as soil quality, water levels, and chemistry. This makes proper planting conditions essential to the tree’s health.
Make sure you know what pests and diseases your tree is susceptible to, have a preventative plan in mind, and always wrap young trees during winter to ward against sunscald.
Neglecting Root System Requirements
The root system is the heart of your tree. When planting, check that the root ball size aligns with USDA requirements for the tree’s type and size. For deciduous trees, this often depends on the caliper size (trunk diameter), and for evergreens or multi-stemmed trees, on the tree's height. Healthy, well-developed roots are essential for water absorption and stability.
Girdling Roots
Girdling roots wrap around the trunk instead of growing outward, potentially choking the tree over time. Before planting, inspect the root ball. Look for roots that are thick and spiraling – these can constrict and kill the tree. Small spiraling roots are fine, but if the roots are excessively thick and circling, it’s best to find another tree.
Failing to Check Drainage
Most trees dislike having “wet feet,” or overly soggy soil. To test drainage, dig the planting hole and fill it with water. If the water hasn’t drained within an hour, the spot might be too wet for your tree. Planting in poorly drained soil can suffocate roots and lead to disease.
Digging Too Small of a Hole
A common error is putting a tree in a hole that’s too small. Think of it this way: don’t plant a $500 tree in a $5 hole. Colorado soil can be tough to dig, but a shallow, wide hole will help the tree roots transition into native soil. Remember, trees need room to grow outward, so the hole should be wide but not excessively deep.
Planting Too Deep
The saying “Plant it high, it won’t die. Plant it low, it won’t grow” highlights the importance of planting depth. A tree planted too deeply can struggle to get the water, oxygen, and nutrients it needs. A wider hole, rather than a deep one, allows roots to access resources without the risk of drowning.
Incorrect Staking
Staking stabilizes young trees, but leaving stakes in place too long can inhibit growth. Most trees only need stakes for about a year. Proper staking helps protect the root ball from excessive movement; however, leaving stakes indefinitely can restrict the tree's natural development.
By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll give your tree the best possible chance to thrive. Proper care will not only save you time and resources but also ensure that your tree grows into a beautiful, lasting feature of your landscape. Happy planting!
Check out our How To Kill A Tree video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T20oWUXOjk4
