by | Dec 20, 2016 | Ranger News | 0 comments

Have you ever wondered, “What is the proper way to plant a tree?” Does it really matter?

Sometimes, it’s hard to imagine the future of a tree, like how tall it will grow or how wide.

200-yr old White Ash behind Holliday Park Nature Center (Indianapolis)

It’s kind of like buying a cute little puppy. It’s small and doesn’t take up much room and, did we mention it’s cute?!! But then after a couple of years it becomes a larger dog that eats more, poops more, and takes up more space. You still love your dog, but over time you come to realize that to really love your pet, you need to do more things to keep it happy, well-fed, healthy and comfortable. The same is almost true with your trees!

So how do you keep your trees “happy, well-fed, healthy and comfortable,” especially if you are thinking about planting one (or more)?

Keep Indianapolis Beautiful team demonstrates the latest techniques in tree planting.

Keep Indianapolis Beautiful (KIB) team demonstrates the latest techniques in tree planting.

First, you have to plan and prepare for it! Why are you wanting to plant a tree? Where will you plant it? Have you had the soil tested? Have you checked for nearby utilities? What kind of tree will you plant? When is the best time to plant a tree? Will it grow too big for its space in time? Will your neighbors mind? Will you have time to properly care for its needs? Etc.

Yes… there is much to consider before planting a tree, but don’t let that stop you or discourage you from wanting to plant one! Just know that for the best success in owning a tree and to maximize your chances to enjoy it for many, many, many years to come, you should take some time to learn about them and ask for expert advice. Not every tree will grow well in every location. There’s a right tree for the right place!

To assist you on this journey, please checkout the videos and publication links below:

Tree Planting Part 1: Choosing a Tree (video)

Tree Planting Part 2: Planting Your Tree (video)

Tree Installation: Process and Practices (PDF)

Tree Planting Part 1: Choosing a Tree

This timely information was made possible thanks to our urban forest friend, Lindsey Purcell (Urban Forestry Specialist at Purdue Extension)!

One more thing…

Call before you dig!

DON’T TAKE CHANCES! Call 8-1-1 BEFORE you dig!

Knowing where underground utility lines are buried before each digging project begins helps to prevent injury, expense and penalties. The depth of utility lines may vary and multiple utility lines may exist in one area. Simple digging jobs can damage utility lines and can disrupt vital services to an entire neighborhood, harm those who dig and result in expensive fines and repair costs. Marked lines show those who dig the approximate location of underground lines and help prevent undesired consequences.