Tree Planting Quiz-Answers

1. The hole is too small. The diameter of the hole should be at least 2 and preferably 3 or more times the diameter of the root ball. The hole should be shaped like a shallow bowl, not a vertical column. Roots grow primarily near the surface. Loosening the soil as far as possible away from the trunk will make it easier for the roots to grow and establish.
2. The tree is planted too deep. The root collar (where the trunk and roots meet) should be even with the final grade. Root collars are frequently 4-6" below the top of the soil ball in a B&B tree.
3. Soil beneath the root ball should not be loosened or prepared. The hole should be dug only as deep as the root system otherwise the ball will settle and the root collar will again be too deep.
4. Back-filled soil should not be "prepared" or amended with other materials. The soil dug from the hole should only be loosened and broken up then back filled around the root ball. This will allow the roots to more easily establish in the surrounding soil.
5. The burlap and twine are still wrapped around the ball. These should be cut off or rolled down exposing the top half of the soil ball after the tree has been set in the hole.
6. B&B trees normally don't need to be staked.
7. Stakes are attached with wire through hose. The hose does not prevent the wire from damaging the trunk as it grows. A wide strapping material should be used instead.
8. The staking wire is too tight. The ties should be loose to allow some play in the trunk. This will allow the trunk to grow stronger. This is particularly important with small caliper trees.
9. Trunk wrap has not been shown to be beneficial, but it does provide an excellent habitat for insects and fungi between the wrap and the trunk.
10. There is no mulch. A wood chip mulch is essential to keep the soil moist and cool, reduce weed competition and protect the trunk from weed whip and lawn mower injury.

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