How to Plant a Palo Verde Tree at the University of Arizona

If you're looking to beautify your yard, increase your property value, or simply give back to the environment, planting a Palo Verde tree on the University of Arizona (U of A) campus is an excellent choice. The Palo Verde is the state tree of Arizona, meaning it's well suited to the state's arid climate, and its vibrant yellow-green foliage is sure to catch the eye of anyone passing by.

Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Plant

The best time to plant a Palo Verde tree at the U of A is during late fall, winter or early spring. This is because the cooler weather allows the tree enough time to establish its roots. The hotter summers which are typical of Arizona can place the newly planted tree under too much stress.

Step 2: Select the Right Location

Palo Verde trees thrive in sunny locations, so be sure to choose a sunny spot on the U of A campus to plant your tree. Keep in mind that the tree will grow to be quite large, so make sure the location you choose has enough space to accommodate a mature tree. Also, it’s a good idea to choose a location that is not too close to buildings, sidewalks, or other structures on campus as the roots of the tree may damage them.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Palo Verde trees require well-draining soil to flourish. Before planting, test the soil in the U of A campus yard to ensure it has the right pH levels and nutrients the tree needs. Soil with a pH of 7.0 is ideal but anything from 6.5 – 7.5 is acceptable. If the soil has poor drainage, you can improve it by adding compost, sand or other materials that can help improve soil structure.

Step 4: Plant the Tree

Start by digging a hole that is twice the diameter of the tree's root ball and deep enough for the tree to comfortably sit in. Make sure you don't bury the trunk too deep, as this can cause the tree to rot. Hold the tree by the root ball and carefully place it in the hole, making sure that it is evenly centered. Fill the hole with soil, patting it down as you go along, to ensure that the tree is secure in the ground. Make sure the soil is well-watered and mulched to help retain moisture.

Step 5: Care for the Tree

Once you've planted your Palo Verde tree on the U of A campus, it's important to give it the proper care it needs to thrive. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, and water the tree regularly, especially during the first two years when the tree is still establishing its roots. Apply fertilizer at least twice a year, in spring and fall, to ensure that the tree has the nutrients it needs.

Conclusion

By following these five steps, you can successfully plant a Palo Verde tree on the University of Arizona campus. Not only will you be contributing to the beautification of the campus, but you'll also be giving back to the environment and enhancing the air quality in the surrounding community. With proper care, your Palo Verde tree can become a valuable asset to the U of A campus and the Tucson community for years to come.