CORVALLIS, Ore. — If conifer tree planting is on your late winter or early spring to-do list, there are steps you can take to improve your success.
When it comes to planting conifers, timing is everything, according to John Punches, Oregon State University Extension Service forester and associate professor in the OSU College of Forestry.
Punches recommends planting when the upper 10 inches of soil is moist, the soil is not frozen more than a half-inch deep, snow cover is less than two inches and air temperature is between 30 and 65 degrees.
It also helps if the wind is blowing at less than 20 miles per hour — and the seedlings are fully dormant.
“A little extra time spent during planting can yield big dividends in young tree survival,” Punches said. “Plant your trees correctly for best success.”
Key tips for successful planting
- Keep roots moist and seedlings cool. Plant in the rain if possible. Dried-out roots are dead roots, and bare-root seedlings are especially susceptible to drying. Containerized seedlings are more protected but still need careful treatment.
- Carry seedlings in a planting bag or bucket to shield them from sun and wind, and remove just one tree at a time for planting. Dig the hole or holes before removing seedlings. Keep roots covered and moist from the moment seedlings leave their bundles until they are planted.
- Dig a good hole. Many planting errors start with holes that are too small for the roots. Holes should be deep enough to hold the root system with ease and leave broken soil all around it to promote growth. If roots are 9 inches long, dig the hole at least 12 inches deep to provide broken soil under the seedling.
- Plant at the right depth. Set trees at the same depth they experienced in the nursery or a bit deeper. Planting too shallow exposes upper roots, which can die. Planting too deep can bury lower twigs and needles. Spread roots in a natural position when placing the seedling.
- Firmly press soil around the plant. Hold the tree upright at the correct depth and backfill with loose, moist soil from the hole. Do not let dry soil, rocks or surface litter fall in; roots in dry pockets can be damaged or killed. When filled with moist soil, press it down firmly.
- Manage competition. Planting is only part of the battle. Control competing vegetation for at least two years so the tree can become fully established.
Previously titled Five tips for properly planting a conifer tree
