In-Ground Planting Instructions for Trees
protect the graft union
PLEASE REMEMBER – The graft union is the most fragile point of a young newly grafted tree. However, as the tree ages, the graft union becomes the strongest part of the trunk. Trees should NEVER be lifted or moved above that point – always be very careful to handle the tree below the graft union and support the main trunk when transporting the tree from nursery container to a new container.
It is helpful to have an assistant when transplanting your tree!
STEP 1 - In-ground Planting
step 1 - in-ground planting
Dig a bowl-shaped hole two feet wider and 10 inches deeper than the nursery container.
Break up soil in the bottom of the hole and remove rocks, sticks and clods from the soil.
STEP 2 - In-ground Planting
step 2 - in-ground planting
Add one half of the Grow Mix one half bag of good quality organic potting mix such as Fox Farm’s Coco-Loco which is sold at Isle of Sky Nursery. Replace enough amended soil in the hole so the tree will be level with the ground when finished.
STEP 3 - In-ground Planting
step 3 - in-ground planting
Whack the back of a shovel against the outside of the container to loosen the roots inside the pot.
STEP 5 - In-ground Planting
step 4 - in-ground planting
Gently remove the tree from the nursery pot and place it upright in the prepared hole.
DO NOT handle the tree above the graft union.
step 5 - in-ground planting
Back fill with your amended organic potting mix to the original soil level with the ground. Lightly work the remaining half of the Grow Mix into the surface around the base of the tree. Create a low berm around the tree at least as wide as the tree is tall with a minimum of four feet.
Flood with water around the tree to settle the soil and add more soil if necessary.
Stake the tree with one or two good wooden or heavy bamboo stakes or tie it as an espalier against a wooden fence or other support to protect your tree from the winds.
Cover the entire well with three to four inches of partially rotten pine needles.
NOTE: The pine needle mulch is the top layer and the remaining Grow Mix is added to the lower layer as per the illustration arrows.