How to Plant a Large Tree

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Susan Mason

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Photo Credit: Mark A. Miller

Large or small, when planted and cared for properly, trees bring your landscape years worth of natural beauty (and beyond).

When new homes rise up out of old farm fields, one thing that’s often forgotten is the landscape. There simply are no big, old trees surrounding the houses – so homeowners begin to plant.

While smaller trees are often recommended because they become established more readily and are easy to maneuver, specimen trees add instant “maturity” to a garden. While very large specimen trees should be planted with the assistance of experts, trees with root balls up to 4 feet in diameter can be planted on your own if you have a few strong helpers.

So don’t let size intimidate you. If you want a bigger bang for your yard, gather a shovel, sturdy planks, a hammer, crowbar, sheet metal shears and your tree (which you can often have delivered to your home), then take the steps shown in the following pictures and described in their captions. Once your tree has been planted, water well and take good care of it to bring years (and years) of instant joy and beauty to your landscape.

Warnings

Large boxed trees are heavy, awkward and hazardous to move. To prevent personal injury, always use proper lifting techniques and equipment when handling large trees.

Facts

Some species’ root systems are better-suited for planting in confined areas. For planting near sidewalks, consider ash, beech, birch, hawthorn, horse chestnut and linden.

Tips

In arid climates or regions with sandy, fast-draining soils, a deep-watering tube of perforated PVC drainpipe installed at the edge of the planting hole can help trees get established.(Be sure to block its end with a PVC cap, wrap it with landscape fabric, and cap it’s top or fill it with gravel.)

Definitions

Specimen tree: A tree that’s grown to be displayed in the open – a showcase tree.

Faqs

Q: What’s the best season for planting trees?
A: While you can plant a tree any time of the year (as long as the ground’s not frozen), it’s best to plant in fall or spring. Summer plantings can be hard on a tree – especially if irrigation is an issue.

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Next Steps

Articles

A “Hole” New Planting Experience…for Your Tree
It’s a pretty simple concept: If you want to plant a tree, you need to dig a hole. Learn the proper way to take this first important step toward giving your new young tree a healthy – and permanent – home in your yard.
Tree Planting and Care
Planting a tree isn’t that hard – but there’s more to it than just digging a hole. Learn the proper way to plant a tree, as well as a little post-planting care.
The Mighty Tree – Enjoying and Selecting
Trees have a lot to offer the garden, no matter what the season – from summer shade to winter interest. Here are a few things to consider before buying a tree for your yard.

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