Landscaping
How to Properly Plant a Tree in Grand Blanc, MI
| Jan 08, 2025
Root flare on a healthy tree. Illustration by Keith Sacre, Barcham Trees, England
Planting a tree correctly is crucial to ensuring its health and longevity. One of the most important aspects when planting a new tree is exposing the root flare - the point where the tree's roots meet the trunk. A root flare that’s buried can cause the tree to suffocate, leading to poor growth or even death. When a tree is planted too deep its roots are also below the living part of the soil, called the rhizosphere. This area of the soil is the living part of the soil which contains nutrients, oxygen, and beneficial bacteria and fungi.
Follow the guidelines below to ensure the tree is planted correctly.
1. Choose the Right Spot: Select a planting location with adequate sunlight, space, and well-draining soil for the tree species you're planting.
2. Remove Excess Soil: Before planting, carefully inspect the root ball and gently remove any soil or burlap that may be covering the root flare. It’s important to expose this area, so the root flare sits slightly above ground level when planted. This helps the tree breathe and encourages proper root development.
3. Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is at least twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower than the depth of the root ball. The width is crucial to allow the roots to spread out, but the depth should be just right to avoid covering the root flare.
4. Place the Tree in the Hole: Position the tree in the hole, ensuring that the root flare is visible and above the surrounding soil. Adjust the height as needed to achieve this.
5. Backfill and Water: Fill in the hole with the original soil, pressing gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Properly planting a tree with its root flare exposed is essential for strong, healthy growth. By following these steps, you can help your tree thrive for years to come.
In the course of the many property inspections I perform each year in Grand Blanc it’s not uncommon for me to find trees that have been planted too low. Some of these trees were even put in by professional landscape companies. If you discover you have a tree that has been planted too low, we may be able to help.