When you plant, always leave a circle clear of plants or grass around the tree. Make the circle at least the diameter of the root ball. This circle will insure that the mower and string trimmer maintain a safe distance from the trunk; they can scrape the bark from trees. Over time, such injuries will weaken or kill a tree.
Mulch Around Trees
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Mulch the circle around the tree with about 2 inches of your favorite organic mulch such as bark. Spread the material carefully to avoid piling it against the trunk. Mulch conserves moisture and helps keep the area weed free. You may need to pull out encroaching grass once or twice a year.
Watering Trees
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Water young trees regularly. Water every week during dry weather. The first one to two years are especially important for roots to become well established.
Fertilizer
: New plantings should be fertilized with Esbenshade's Transplant Root Stimulator. This will stimulate rapid root growth and prevent plant stress. The following years f
ertilize at the beginning of the growing season with a product that contains a timed-release fertilizer that lasts many weeks. Repeat according to package directions.
Note About Tree Roots
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Tree roots spread to the tips of the branches, often farther. Compacting the soil, cutting the roots, or changing the level of the soil that covers the roots can slowly kill existing trees. Before doing landscape or home construction or underground utility work, consult an urban forester on how to best work around existing trees and avoid tree problems.