If you’re adding a new tree to your garden this year, why not start with something small that you can watch grow and flourish over the years? Most small trees are planted either balled-and-burlapped (B&B) or from nursery containers, depending on local custom. Choose the best stock from recent arrivals for the most dependable results. (Like their bare-root counterparts, small trees should be planted in unamended garden soil.)
Planting a tree – even if it’s a small one – may sound intimidating. But the process is fairly simple. Gather your shovel, tape measure and tree, then choose one of the two methods shown below. Just follow the steps as described in the photo captions – and enjoy your newest garden addition.
Planting a Small B&B Tree - Step 1
Move the tree to your planting site. Loosen the burlap’s ties and measure from the soil surface to the root ball’s base. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball’s depth and 1/3 wider.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting a Small B&B Tree - Step 2
Untie and peel back the burlap, folding it down around the root ball. If it’s synthetic burlap, remove it entirely.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting a Small B&B Tree - Step 3
With a helper, lift the root ball and set the tree into the hole. Backfill around it.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting a Small B&B Tree - Step 4
Build a basin by raising a 3- to 4-inch-tall moat around the outer perimeter of the hole. Water thoroughly.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting a Small Nursery Tree - Step 1
Planting a Small Nursery Tree, Step 1: When planting a tree that’s been grown in a nursery container, first measure the depth of the soil in the container. Dig a hole as deep as that soil level and about 2-4 inches wider than the pot.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting a Small Nursery Tree - Step 2
Planting a Small Nursery Tree, Step 2: Lay the container on its side. Loosen the soil around the root ball, then slide the container from the tree’s roots. Carefully unwind any encircling roots.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
Planting a Small Nursery Tree - Step 3
Set the tree in the planting hole. Backfill with native soil, settling it with your palms. Water the tree thoroughly.
Photo Credit: ©2002 Dolezal Publishing/John M. Rickard
