How to Plant a Ohio Buckeye Tree

The Ohio Buckeye tree, also known as Aesculus glabra or Horse-chestnut, is a deciduous tree native to Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. It is a beautiful addition to any landscape with its showy, yellow-green flowers in the spring and unique, palmate leaves in the summer. Planting a buckeye tree requires some preparation and care, but with a little effort, you can enjoy its beauty for many years to come.

Step 1: Choose a suitable location

Before you start planting your buckeye tree, choose a suitable location for it. The Ohio Buckeye tree prefers a moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The tree can grow up to 50 feet high and 40 feet wide, so make sure to choose a space with enough room for the tree to grow. Avoid planting the buckeye tree in areas with saturated soil or strong winds.

Step 2: Prepare the soil

Prepare the soil by digging a hole that is at least two times wider and deeper than the root ball of the buckeye tree. Mix the soil from the hole with compost, peat moss, or other organic matter to enrich the soil and improve drainage. Buckeye trees grow best in slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A soil test can help you determine the pH level and nutrient content of your soil.

Step 3: Plant the tree

Carefully remove the buckeye tree from its container and loosen any tangled or circling roots before planting. Place the tree in the center of the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill the hole with the soil mixture and press it down firmly to remove any air pockets around the roots. Water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil and provide moisture to the roots.

Step 4: Mulch and water the tree

Add a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid piling mulch against the trunk of the buckeye tree as it can cause damage to the bark. Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first year of growth. Buckeye trees require about one inch of water per week, either from rainfall or manual watering.

Step 5: Prune and maintain the tree

Prune the buckeye tree in late winter or early spring to remove any damaged, diseased, or crossing branches. This helps to improve the tree's shape and promote healthy growth. Buckeye trees do not require heavy pruning, but it is important to remove dead wood and thin out overly dense areas. Maintain the tree by regularly checking for pests, diseases, and other issues that may affect its health and growth.

Planting an Ohio Buckeye tree is a rewarding experience that brings beauty and shade to your landscape. Remember to choose a suitable location, prepare the soil, plant the tree correctly, and provide proper care and maintenance. With these steps, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of your buckeye tree for many years to come.