Tips from the Street Tree Committee for Fall Tree Planting

Fall is the best time to plant trees because tree roots can get established while the tree is dormant over the winter. The Anderson Township Street Tree Committee encourages residents to plant trees on their property to maintain the community’s tree canopy and replace the many trees recently lost to invasive insects and storms.

Here are some helpful tips for homeowners:

·        Plant the right tree in the right place. Do you want an evergreen for year around privacy and wind protection or a large shade tree or a smaller flowering tree? Understand how big a tree will grow and consider the space where you are planting it.

·        The smaller a tree is when planted, the faster it will establish and grow. A smaller tree will have less transplant shock and a higher survival rate. Avoid the temptation to plant the biggest tree you can. A five- gallon container tree will catch up to a 15-gallon container tree within three to five years or less.

·        Provide a three-foot diameter ring of mulch around trees, but do not mulch against the trunk. Avoid “volcano mulch” on a tree trunk. 

·        Water a newly planted tree carefully, especially for the first three years as the roots get established. Even mature trees should be watered slowly and deeply, especially during droughts. Sprinklers used for grass typically do not provide enough deep, soaking water for trees. 

·        Protect your existing trees or newly planted trees from deer damage by using plastic mesh deer tree guards available at local tree nurseries or wire fencing with metal posts. Corrugated pipe is not recommended or should be removed in the spring and summer.

Trees are a long-term investment in the value of your property and properly planted and well-maintained trees enhance the quality of life for all Anderson Township residents.