Choosing a Location for Shade Trees

The best way to succeed is to plan before you plant. Let’s discuss location: Do you know where you want to plant your new trees? Avoid many future problems by considering all aspects of the planting spot, such as:

  • Sun and good soil
  • Check out the surroundings
  • Space wisely
  • Leave space for future planting

NOTE: This is part 3 in a series of 10 articles. For a complete background on how to grow shade trees, we recommend starting from the beginning.

Sun and Good Soil

Your plant would love a sunny place with well-drained, fertile soil. But it will be quite satisfied with six to eight hours of sunlight. Good drainage is required to keep your plant “happy.” If your soil has high clay content, use our Coco-Fiber Potting Medium or add one-third peat to the soil at planting time. We do not recommend planting in heavy, pure clay soils.
If your soil is heavy, you might consider removing nearly or all of the planting hole clay and replace it with amended soil to help get your new tree off to a good start.

Surroundings

If you’d like your tree to become a landscaping asset, choose the planting place with this in mind. Imagine it as a full-grown tree and check everything out: Wires overhead? Sidewalk underneath? Does it obstruct something you want to see? Can you keep an eye on it from the house? Will other trees be in the way, allowing for their additional growth in the meantime?
Even a year or two after planting, your tree will be very difficult to transplant. Take the time to plant it in just the right place.

Space Wisely

New growers frequently inquire about ideal planting distances from patios, sewer lines, and water pipes. Although sewer and water lines are deeply buried, roots can still grow towards them if the tree is planted too close, as they are typically moist. To prevent this issue, ensure trees are planted at a sufficient distance from these structures.

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Tools & Supplies for Shade Trees