How to Plant Root Bound Trees

Planting trees is beneficial in many ways, but it is important to ensure that the planting process is done correctly. One challenge that many people face when planting trees is dealing with root-bound trees. Root-bound trees have roots that are growing in a circular or tangled manner around the root ball, often leading to stunted growth or even death of the tree. In this article, we will discuss how to plant root-bound trees properly to ensure their healthy growth and development.

Step 1: Carefully Study Your Tree

Before planting your root-bound tree, it is important to carefully study it. Inspect the tree to determine the health of the roots and identify any damaged or diseased roots. Carefully cutting away any damaged roots can help promote healthy growth. Also, be sure to examine the trunk and branches of the tree and remove any damaged, broken, or diseased wood.

Step 2: Preparing the Hole

When planting your root-bound tree, it is important to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball, but not any deeper than the root ball itself. This will provide sufficient space for the roots to grow and spread out. The soil dug out should be kept aside in a separate location to use later.

Step 3: Preparing the Root Ball

The next step is to prepare the root ball for planting. This can be done by carefully removing the tree from its container or burlap wrap, taking care not to damage the roots. Once the tree has been removed, inspect the root ball and untangle any roots that are twisted or entwined. You may also need to cut away any circling roots to encourage healthy growth.

Step 4: Placing the Tree in the Hole

When placing the tree in the hole, make sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Be sure to spread the roots out as much as possible to encourage healthy growth. Also, ensure that the tree is not planted too deeply, as this can cause rotting and other problems down the line.

Step 5: Backfilling and Watering

Backfill the hole with the soil that was dug out earlier, being sure to gently tamp down the soil to remove any air pockets. After planting, water the root ball thoroughly to ensure that it is adequately hydrated. The soil around the tree should be kept moist but not too wet, as over-watering can damage the roots.

Step 6: Mulching and Staking

Finally, mulch around the base of the tree to help maintain moisture levels and provide insulation from the elements. Also, if needed, stake the tree to help it remain upright and stable while it becomes established. Be sure to remove the stakes after a year or two to prevent damage to the tree's trunk.

In conclusion, planting root-bound trees requires a bit of extra care and attention, but the effort is well worth it. With proper planting techniques and adequate care, root-bound trees can grow and flourish, providing years of beauty and enjoyment for you and future generations to come.