Planting trees in landscapes

Well executed planting projects start with appropriate site evaluation, design, and tree selection. Site conditions and after care capabilities should dictate maximum tree size at planting, root ball characteristics, appropriate tree production method, and tree structure. Tree selection includes choosing the appropriate species or cultivar for the planting site based on site evaluation. Then, suitable nursery stock must be chosen based on site conditions and intended after care.

The nursery stock must be inspected carefully to pick the best quality tree. Tree quality can be assured by planning the transportation to the landscape site and by handling the tree carefully. Appropriate planting practices will help the tree get off to a good start. Many trees are planted too deeply so they perform poorly following planting. Management of the landscape site in the early years following planting will dramatically affect the establishment rate and ultimate success of the planting. Click here for a checklist for designing a tree planting program.

Nursery stock | Transportation | Planting hole | Planting
Establishment | Transplanting | Specifications | Planting index

New fact sheets (color): Selecting quality trees from the nursery | Planting and establishing trees