Tree Planting Tips

A bit of planning will help you plant your trees properly and will ensure that they thrive and survive.  Please take the time to review the information below before you buy or plant your tree(s).  Seedlings are fragile, so try to do everything you can to help them grow to maturity.

Planning for planting

Trees require four basic elements to thrive: water, nutrients, sunlight, and room to grow.  You can help your tree survive by following the tips below:

• Inspect the site where you’d like to plant your tree.  Try to determine what kind of soil you have - knowing your soil type will help you decide on the best tree for your site.
• Choose a native tree species that will thrive in your region of Ontario.  Visit the Native Species Database for help in selecting the right tree.
• Choose an area where your tree will have adequate room to grow.  Find out how large your tree might get and be aware of power lines and nearby buildings.  Download Planning for Tree Planting (PDF) for more details.
• Try to select an area without other plants close by, otherwise your tree will have to compete for water, sunlight, and nutrients.  Room to Grow: Controlling Competition (PDF) can provide more information.
• If you have more questions, your local garden centre or nursery might be able to help.

The best time to plant

Trees with leaves, like maples, birch, and poplars, are called ‘deciduous’.  Plant deciduous trees in the spring as soon as the frost is out of the ground and before the trees are in bud.  Otherwise, plant in the fall, between when the leaves fall and freeze-up.

Trees with needles, such as pine, are called ‘evergreens’.  Plant evergreens early in the Spring, up until four weeks after deciduous trees have opened their leaves.  Otherwise, plant in the fall, from about the first week of August until the end of October.

Handling and storing trees

The tree you choose to plant might come as a seedling with exposed roots, or as a more mature tree with roots surrounded by soil or in a pot.  Here are a few tips on how to handle these fragile plants:

• Do not allow the seedlings to dry out. Remember, "if they dry, they die."
• Handle seedlings carefully. Be sure not to damage the roots or stem.  Rough handling could kill your tree.
• Avoid temperature extremes.  Changes in temperature, especially excessive heat, can damage your tree.
• Plant promptly. Once you get your tree(s), minimize storage time (especially early in the season).
• If your seedling comes in a bag, don’t open it until you're ready to plant, and reseal any partially used bags as quickly as possible.

Proper planting technique

Proper planting will help your tree to survive.  Some planting tips are:

• For seedlings with bare roots, spread the roots out well and never roll them up in the soil.
• Place the seedling as upright as possible, even on hills.
• Don't plant seedlings near water holes, stumps, or rocks.
• Plant the seedlings at the right depth. For bare root seedlings, the root collars should be at ground level. 
• If your tree comes in a container, don’t remove it until just before planting.  When planting, ensure the top of the soil around the roots is 1 to 2 cm below ground level.
• Never leave roots exposed to the air. 
• Never bury the branches.
• Do not trim roots. Seedlings need every single tiny root.
• Pack the soil well, but don't over pack it.  Press gently but firmly to prevent shocking the roots. Air pockets can kill roots.
• If you’re planting more than one tree, don’t put them too close together.

Download Careful Handling and Planting of Nursery Stock (PDF) or Clearing the Way: Preparing the Site for Tree Planting (PDF) for more information, or ask at your local nursery or garden centre.

Caring for your tree

When you buy your tree, ask for instructions on maintaining it.  Ensure your tree gets enough water and care.  If you can, collect rainwater in a barrel to help water your tree.