What to Amend Soil with When Planting Ornamental Tree

Planting an ornamental tree is a wonderful way of adding beauty and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a yard or garden. However, to ensure that the tree grows strong, healthy and vibrant, it is essential to plant it in soil that has been appropriately amended. In this article, we explore some of the most effective soil amendments for planting ornamental trees.

Compost

Compost is an excellent soil amendment for ornamental trees. It improves soil texture and structure, increases soil fertility, and promotes beneficial microorganisms in the soil. Before planting an ornamental tree, incorporate well-rotted compost into the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. Compost adds organic matter, which helps to retain soil moisture and prevent erosion, providing the tree with adequate water and nutrients.

Biochar

Biochar is a type of charcoal that is created by burning organic materials such as wood, crop residues, or manure at a high temperature and in the absence of oxygen. Biochar is rich in carbon and beneficial microorganisms, and when added to the soil, it significantly improves soil fertility, increases water retention capacity, and promotes soil structure. For planting ornamental trees, mix biochar into the soil at a rate of 15-20% by volume.

Peat Moss

Peat moss is another excellent soil amendment for ornamental trees. It has excellent water holding capacity and helps to loosen compacted soils and improve drainage. When planting an ornamental tree, mix peat moss into the soil at a depth of 6-8 inches to improve soil structure and provide the tree with adequate water and nutrients.

Bone Meal

Bone meal is an organic fertilizer that is rich in phosphorous and calcium, two essential nutrients that are crucial for tree growth and development. Bone meal also helps to improve soil fertility and structure. When planting an ornamental tree, incorporate bone meal into the soil at a rate of 1-2 pounds per 100 square feet of soil.

Vermicompost

Vermicompost is a type of compost that is produced by earthworms. It contains high levels of humic acid and beneficial microorganisms that significantly improve soil structure, fertility, and nutrient uptake. When planting an ornamental tree, mix vermicompost into the soil at a rate of 10-15% by volume to improve soil health and provide the tree with adequate water and nutrients.

Sand

Sand is an excellent soil amendment for heavy clay soils that drain poorly. By adding sand to the soil, it helps to improve drainage, loosen soil, and improve soil structure. When planting ornamental trees, mix sand into heavy clay soil at a rate of 50-60% by volume to provide the tree with adequate water and nutrients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, soil amendments play a crucial role in ensuring that ornamental trees grow strong, healthy, and vibrant. The above-listed soil amendments are some of the most effective in ensuring that the soil is fertile, well-drained, and provides adequate water and nutrients to the tree. Incorporate these amendments into the soil before planting an ornamental tree, and watch it thrive for years to come.