|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
With longer days, warmer weather and wildflowers coming into bloom, spring is typically the time of year when people start thinking about their gardens, including adding trees to their landscape.
Since many trees live well-past 100 years, planting one can be a long-term commitment.
That’s why it’s important to do plenty of research and preparation: Spring planting is all about picking the right trees, planting them carefully and sticking to a good maintenance routine. To help you get started, here are some important tips to remember when considering planting in the spring months.
Select native or well-adapted species
Tree species that are native to a region or well-adapted to its climate are more likely to thrive and require less maintenance. The greater San Francisco Bay Area has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Some suitable native tree species include coast live oak, California buckeye and California sycamore.
Most plant tags and gardening guides include “hardiness zones” about specific tree species that can help you know which plants will grow where you live based on the lowest average temperature your area is expected to receive during the winter.
To find the hardiness zone of your neighborhood, type your ZIP code into the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map.
Select the right location
Before selecting a location for your new tree, consider the tree’s size, sunlight and soil needs and how it will fit into your landscape.
In addition to climate, trees have specific sunlight and soil requirements. If you select a tree that needs full sun, make sure you plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If your tree requires shade, pick a location that receives two or less hours of full sun each day.
Make sure the soil also meets the tree’s requirements: A tree that needs dry soil, for example, might die if you plant it in a wet spot.
Select a site that is far enough from buildings (typically 15 feet) , overhead power lines, sidewalks and your neighbor’s property to ensure that there’s adequate space for your tree’s roots and branches as it grows.
For more planting tips, check out the Arbor Day Foundation’s “The Right Tree in the Right Place” checklist.
Plant before temperatures get too hot
Spring is generally a good time for tree planting, but it’s crucial to consider weather conditions specific to your area. Aim to plant trees early in the spring before warmer weather sets in. This allows the trees to establish their root systems before facing the stress of higher temperatures.
Prepare the soil
Before planting anything, knowing your soil’s current state and making proper adjustments can be the difference between a tree that survives and a tree that thrives. A soil test will tell you about the amount of nutrients in your soil, whether your soil is acidic or alkaline and how much fertilizer you’ll need.
Ensure good drainage by amending the soil with organic matter. Compost can improve soil structure and water retention.
Practice proper watering and mulching
Watering is critical, especially during the establishment phase. Provide consistent and deep watering to encourage deep root growth. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Be mindful not to pile mulch against the trunk to prevent rot – no volcano mulching!
George Reno is a local arborist at The Davey Tree Expert Company in Menlo Park. If you have a tree-related question, email lifestyle@EmbarcaderoMedia.org.