Planting a tree is one the easiest and best tangible actions you can undertake to create a sustainable planet for all. Learn how to plant a tree!
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Part 1: Timing and Location
- Select a healthy tree that naturally thrives in your climate
- Plant most tree species in the fall or early spring
- Pick an open, flat area away from buildings, powerlines, and utilities
- Make sure your chosen location gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily
Part 2: Planting
- Water the soil on planting day before you dig the hole
- Dig a hole 2-3 times the diameter of the root ball
- Dig the hole to the same depth as the root ball
- Nestle the root ball into the prepared hole
- Fill in the planting hole with the original soil and tamp lightly
- Water deeply at the base of the tree until the soil is saturated
Part 3: Care and maintenance
- Add a 3–4 in (7.6–10.2 cm) layer of organic wood mulch around the tree
- Keep the soil consistently moist for the first 2 years
- Water less frequently once the tree is established
- Remove damaged or diseased branches every few months
