Watering

A newly transplanted tree has lost a large percentage of its fibrous root system, and as a result has a diminished water absorbing capacity. It is therefore crucial that an adequate supply of water is maintained around the remaining root system to facilitate carrying on the vital life process. 

Frequency

The following recommendations will vary depending upon the planting season and the amount of natural rainfall. Water absorption varies greatly depending on the soil type, its aeration and drainage factors. Based on your soil type we suggest watering once every 2-10 days as follows:

Heavy Clay                          clay/silt                 loam                      sand

7-10 days                             5-7 days               3-5 days               2-3 days

Care must be taken not to over-water as tree roots can actually drown and rot. They can require time between watering’s to drain out and breathe. Clay soil requires extra time to drain, take care not to overwater. Never allow the soil to dry up completely especially during hot dry periods in the summer. Test the soil (10cm deep) for declining frequency until fall, except for evergreens which require a thorough watering just prior to freeze up (to prevent winter dehydration).

Method

The best method of watering your tree(s) is by setting up an oscillating sprinkler beside the tree to thoroughly soak a minimum area twice the size of the root ball. This method is preferred because it will stimulate the new root growth to seek moisture out and beyond the confined root ball area. A deep soaking with a water sprinkler may take several hours. Avoid short frequent (daily) watering. A soil dish is also acceptable when a sprinkler is not feasible. Watering is normally needed for the first two growing seasons only, and thereafter only in severe cases of drought.

Fertilizing

Trees purchased and planted by Instant Tree receive an initial application of slow-release fertilizer(type of fertilizer here) that is sufficient for the first year. Early next spring we recommend any of the following options for fertilizing your trees:

·         Liquid applications use any ratio of 3 to 1 to 1 as directed (ie. 30-10-10, 21-7-7 or similar)

·         General purpose granular fertilizers – ratio of 3-1-1,(slow release preferred) in pellet form may be poured into drilled holes or surface sprinkled around the root ball area.

·         Effective top dress fertilizers include mulching with mushroom compost, decomposed manure, etc.

Do not fertilize during July, August or September.

Pruning

A newly transplanted tree should be pruned sparingly. We recommend corrective pruning (double leaders, etc.) every 3-4 years to properly develop your tree’s shape.

Bracing

Some newly transplanted trees may require some form of bracing (by Instant Tree) to help anchor and stabilize the tree, enabling the root system to re-establish itself. Stakes should be removed within one year. Inspect the arbor-tie on a routine basis to avoid bark damage; reposition or remove if necessary (some slack is fine to allow sway).

Mulching

Mulches are very beneficial as they help retain soil moisture, improve weed control, stabilize root zone temperatures and protect the trunk from mower damage. We recommend a medium grade wood mulch (10cm/4”) for your newly planted trees (eg. shredded cedar). Do not pile mulch against the trunk! Flowers or grasses are competition for the tree. Never allow a trimmer or mower deck to damage the trunk of the tree.

Insects and Disease

The best insect and disease control is to inspect your trees on a routine basis for early detection and to become familiar with some of the common pests encountered in each species. Frequently, minor problems (tent caterpillars, overwintering eggs, etc.) can be spotted and removed by the home-owner. Control measures can be complex and vary greatly depending on the problem.

Tree Wrapping

To help prevent winter frost cracking or sun scald (maples) wrap the trunk with burlap up to the branches or stand a board up against the south west side of the trunk. Use plastic wrap around the  bottom 3 feet to prevent rodent damage or leave bait. Keep vegetation short as winter approaches.

Tree Shock

It is important to realize that most trees will experience some degree of shock or stress when transplanted. The tree will loose some of its lustre and leaves are usually small as it concentrates on developing new roots below. By the third and fourth year your tree should be growing at a near normal pace.

(Above information adapted from Monotick Tree Movers Inc.)