How to Plant a Bur Oak Tree

A bur oak tree is a magnificent addition to any lawn or garden. These trees can grow up to 80 feet tall and live for hundreds of years. They provide shade, beauty, and a habitat for birds and wildlife. If you want to plant a bur oak tree, follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

The first step in planting a bur oak tree is to choose the right location. Bur oak trees need full sun exposure and well-draining soil. They can tolerate clay soils but don’t tolerate soils that are too wet or too dry. Avoid planting the tree near power lines, buildings, or other trees, as it needs plenty of room to grow.

Step 2: Prepare the Site

Once you’ve chosen the location, prepare the site for planting. Clear any grass or weeds around the planting area and dig a hole that is two to three times wider than the root ball of the tree. The hole should be deep enough to accommodate the entire root system. Amend the soil with compost, if necessary, to improve the nutrient content and drainage.

Step 3: Plant the Tree

Next, it’s time to plant the tree. Carefully remove the bur oak tree from its container or burlap wrap, being careful not to damage the roots. Place the tree in the center of the hole, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Fill the hole with soil, gently packing it down to remove any air pockets.

Step 4: Water the Tree

After planting the bur oak tree, water it thoroughly to help establish the roots. Water the tree deeply once a week, unless it rains, until the roots are established. After that, reduce the frequency of watering to once every two weeks or when the soil around the tree is dry.

Step 5: Mulch the Tree

To help conserve moisture and suppress weeds, apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, being careful not to let the mulch touch the trunk. The mulch layer should be at least two inches deep and cover the area out to the drip line of the tree.

Step 6: Prune the Tree

To develop a strong central leader and attractive shape, prune the bur oak tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and any branches that grow below the first major branch.

Step 7: Maintain the Tree

Once the bur oak tree is established, it requires relatively low maintenance. Fertilize the tree with an all-purpose fertilizer in the early spring, and prune as needed to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or diseased branches. Watch out for pests and diseases, such as oak wilt, and treat them promptly to avoid any damage.

By following these seven steps, you can plant a beautiful bur oak tree that will provide shade, beauty, and habitat for wildlife for many years to come.