Old Mountain Arboretum encourages everyone to plant trees. Its easy and is one of the easiest and most powerful things we can do collectively and individually to make a positive impact on our environment and improve the quality of life for our communities across Mississippi We invite you to learn how to properly plant and care for trees. Below are some simple tree planting and care tips to help you give your tree the best start possible. Make a difference, plant JUST ONE TREE (#justonetree)
1. Plant Your Tree When Conditions Are Right
* Set your tree up for success by planting them at the right time for your location.
* In Mississippi Fall is ok, but Winter is best.
2. Choose Your Spot Carefully
* Match the location to your tree species' ideal growing conditions (ie: full sun vs. partial shade, etc.)
* Does the location allow enough room for the tree to grow to full maturity without interference from other trees, buildings, or objects?
* Is your location convenient and assessable for watering, pruning, or care?
3. Dig Your Hole
* Did the hole with a width at least 3 times the width of the root ball to allow for root spread.
* Dig the hole as deep as the height of the root ball but not deeper than that of which it was growing in its previous environment.
4. Free Your Tree
* Carefully remove your tree from its container. Do not pull or lift from the trunk or branches. Keep the soil around the roots intact.
* Carefully support the root ball when lifting.
* Break up any circling roots. May times roots will grow into a dense circling mass packed together. If not addressed roots will not grow properly to provide adequate support and will eventually will girdle and strangle the tree. The root mass can be sliced vertically around the root ball, in three or four places, to separate the roots and cause them to grow out.
5. Plant Your Tree
* Place your tree in the center of the hole.
* Make sure your tree is straight so the root collar will be slightly visible above the ground. Avoid planting too deep.
* Ensure that the top of the root ball is slightly above the surrounding soil once hole is backfilled.
* Remember to remove tags and labels as these will affect the tree as it grows.
6. Add Soil Back To The Hole
* Using soil, secure tree in a straight position.
* Fill the hole with original soil a few inches at a time. Settle with water to make sure there are no air pockets.
* Do not pack the soil.
7. Mulch Your Tree
* Add a 2-4" thick mulch around the base to help the soil retain moisture.
* Do not pile mulch on the trunk or root collar.
8. Water Your Tree
* Water your tree well once planted.
* The soil and mulch around your tree should be kept moist but not soggy. You shouldn't see standing water.
* Remember to water your tree at lest once a week, or more often as conditions require.
Share your tree planting photos or photos of your favorite trees on social media with #justonetree and be sure to tag us so we can celebrate you making a difference!
![[Make a Difference...Plant A Tree!]](https://www.oldmountainarb.org/news/images/plant_a_tree.jpg)
![[Make a Difference...Plant A Tree!]](https://www.oldmountainarb.org/news/images/arb_tree_planting.jpg)
![[Make a Difference...Plant A Tree!]](https://www.oldmountainarb.org/news/images/new_arb_tree.jpg)
