🌳 Tree Care Tips for Newly Planted Trees

💧 Water Deeply & Consistently

• Water slowly so it soaks into the root zone, not just the surface.
• First 2 years: water 1–2 times per week in dry weather.
• Small trees: 10–15 gallons per watering; larger trees need more.

Disclaimer: Keep the hose a foot away from the trunk and water for one hour
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 Why it’s important: New trees have small, developing root systems that need consistent moisture to grow deep and strong. Shallow watering encourages roots to stay near the surface, making the tree more vulnerable to drought and wind. Deep watering trains roots to grow downward, where moisture lasts longer.

🍂 Mulch the Base

• Apply 2–4 inches of mulch (wood chips, bark, leaves) around the base. (If you have a tree planted by us, we mulch it for you.)
• Keep mulch a few inches from the trunk to prevent rot.
• Mulch keeps roots cool, moist, and protected.
  
  Why it’s important: Mulch acts like a protective blanket for the soil, helping retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds that compete for water and nutrients. Keeping mulch away from the trunk prevents excess moisture against the bark, which can cause rot and invite pests.
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🌱 Check Soil Moisture

• Test 2–3 inches deep with your finger or trowel.
• If dry, it’s time to water.
  
  Why it’s important: Overwatering can suffocate roots, while underwatering can stress and weaken the tree. Testing soil before watering ensures you give the right amount at the right time, keeping roots healthy and oxygenated.
  
  

🛡 Protect the Trunk

• Avoid mower or trimmer damage to the bark.
• Use a tree guard for the first year.
  
  Why it’s important: A damaged trunk disrupts the tree’s vascular system, the “plumbing” that moves water and nutrients. Lawn equipment nicks and scrapes can open wounds that invite pests, disease, and decay. Guards and careful maintenance help protect this vital lifeline.
  
  

✂ Prune Carefully

• Only remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches early on.
• Wait until established for major shaping.
  
  Why it’s important: Early pruning mistakes can cause poor structure, weak limbs, and unnecessary stress. Removing only dead, damaged, or crossing branches allows the tree to focus energy on growth and healing. Structural pruning is best once the tree is stronger and well-established.

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🐛 Watch for Pests & Disease

• Inspect leaves and bark for spots, holes, or sticky residue.
• Treat issues early.
  
  ​Why it’s important: Infestations and infections spread quickly and can permanently damage or kill a young tree. Early detection allows for quick treatment, often preventing more costly or irreversible problems.

⏳ Be Patient

• Roots grow before branches, early growth is slow, but worth the wait!

Why it’s important: The first few years are spent building a strong root foundation underground before you see much visible growth above ground. This “slow start” ensures the tree can stand tall and thrive for decades.