.png){kind=logo}
How to Plant a Tree Yourself: A Step-by-Step Guide
- sam1264
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
At Trees for Less, we love helping customers bring their outdoor spaces to life with beautiful, healthy trees. While we’re always happy to handle the planting for you, some of our customers enjoy rolling up their sleeves and planting their own trees — and we’re here to make sure you get it right!
Planting a tree properly can make a big difference in how well your tree grows and how long it lives. Here’s our tried-and-true method for planting a tree the right way.
🛠️ What You’ll Need:
Shovel
Mulch (wood chips or bark)
Water source (hose or watering can)
Stake and ties (optional for windy areas)
A healthy tree (we know a place 😉)
🌱 Step 1: Pick the Perfect Spot
Choose a location with enough sunlight, space for future growth, and good drainage. Avoid placing trees too close to houses, fences, or power lines — think about how wide and tall it will get when mature.
Pro tip: Call your local utility company before you dig to make sure there are no underground lines where you plan to plant.
🕳️ Step 2: Dig the Hole
Dig a hole that’s 1.5–2 times wider than the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself. The top of the root ball should sit level with or slightly above the ground line.
Wider holes give roots room to spread out and establish more easily.
🌳 Step 3: Place the Tree
Place the tree directly in the hole so it’s standing straight. No need to remove it from the burlap, the roots will grow through. Ensure the top of the root ball is just above the soil line.
Avoid planting too deep — this is one of the most common mistakes!
🧱 Step 4: Backfill with Soil
Use the soil you dug out to backfill around the roots. Gently tamp it down with your hands or feet as you go to remove air pockets, but don’t compact it too tightly.
When the hole is filled, form a small berm (a low ring of soil) around the tree’s base to help hold water.
💧 Step 5: Water Thoroughly
Give the tree a deep watering right after planting — this helps settle the soil and gives roots a good start. Continue watering 1–2 times per week for the first year, especially in hot or dry weather.
🌿 Step 6: Mulch & Monitor
Add a 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the tree, keeping it 2–3 inches away from the trunk. Mulch keeps roots cool, retains moisture, and prevents weeds.
Check on your tree regularly for signs of stress (wilting, browning, or leaning) and adjust watering as needed.
🏁 You Did It!
That’s it — you’ve successfully planted a tree! With the right care in the first year, your tree will establish strong roots and grow beautifully for years to come.
If you ever have questions, the team at Trees for Less is just a call away. We’re here to support you if you need it — from the nursery to your yard.
Need another tree, mulch, or more tree care tips? Stop by Trees for Less.
Comments