Plant it right the first time and enjoy a stronger, longer-living tree for years to come.
Follow our simple, step-by-step guide to give your new tree the best start. Many newly planted trees struggle to survive and it usually comes down to how they were planted. With the right care, a well-planted tree will reward you for years with lush foliage, seasonal flowers, cooling shade and a thriving habitat for wildlife.
What you’ll need
How to plant your new tree
STEP 1.
Check the mature size of your tree and make sure it has enough room to grow. Never prune a tree just to fit a space - ensure the space is big enough!
1. Cape chestnut (Calodendrum capense) creates a wide, dappled canopy– ideal for shading a peaceful garden seat.
STEP 2.
Remove the tree from its pot. Look for fresh white roots that aren’t circling the pot. Trim any excess roots and gently loosen the root ball.
STEP 3.
Dig a hole 30–50% wider and deeper than the root ball.
STEP 4.
Roughen the edges of the hole with a spade to encourage roots to grow outward; smooth edges can cause circling roots that hinder development.
.png)
STEP 5.
Fill the hole with water and let it soak in, then repeat to moisten the entire root zone.
STEP 6.
Check the pot or planting bag for a north marker from production and maintain that orientation to protect the tree from sunburn and keep its climate focus for its best health.
STEP 7.
Loosen the base of the hole with a garden fork to encourage deep root penetration thus good growth.
TOP TIP
Plant trees not for yourself but for the joy of those who will find shelter and beauty beneath their branches for a long time to come
For you to know
Large trees don’t fall for no reason. Many are weakened from the start, with restricted root systems and girdling roots caused by incorrect planting.The consequences can be serious: storm damage, power outages, property destruction, insurance headaches and the loss of valuable shade, greenery and wildlife habitat. Plant it right and you save more than just your tree – you protect your home, your community and your environment.
STEP 8.
Place controlled-release fertiliser or organic pellets (like Neutrog's Seamungus) in the base and cover with 5–10cm of soil improved with compostor a soil conditioner.
STEP 9.
Check the depth of the root ball with the depth of the hole, ensuring the root ball sits at the same level in the hole as it did in the pot.
STEP 10.
Your tree will benefit if you mix the excavated soil 50:50 with compost or commercial soil conditioner.
STEP 11.
Place your tree in the hole and back fill with the improved soil, building a 10–15cm raised ring around the edge to retain water.
STEP 12.
Water thoroughly using a strong stream or hose with a nozzle, allowing water to penetrate the rootzone and release any air pockets. Do not stamp on the root ball.
STEP 13.
Finish with a 10L watering can of water mixed with Popul8, GoGo Juice, Seamungus liquid or seaweed solution to reduce transplant shock and encourage strong root growth
Choose the right spot –“room to flourish"
TOP TIP
Choose a tree suited to your soil, climate and space, so it fits naturally into your garden andl ifestyle.
We hope you have enjoyed this article so far.
One of the many benefits of Garden Clinic membership is full access to our website. Members please log in to view the complete articles.
If you are not a Garden Clinic member and wish to access our website as well as enjoy the many benefits of membership, including access to our Helpline 7 days a week, please visit the link below to join us.