Spring Tree Checklist

Now that the temperatures are rising (with the exception of random snow!), it is time to give your young trees a little attention. Trees need specific care for two years after planting so that trees have their best chance. Check the list below for a few tips to ensure healthy growth during these spring months.

We are committed to helping you and your trees along this journey. Our team has expanded and welcomed two new urban forest coordinators, Becky and Robert. They look forward to getting to know you at projects throughout the year!

inspect

• Check tree trunk for any damage. 
• Prune only the damaged, diseased or dead branches. Newly planted trees typically need to grow without being pruned for two years, but removing undesirable branches like this will help the health of the tree by increasing nutrients to the living branches. 
• Remove weeds and debris around the tree.

water

• Check the soil moisture by digging about 6 inches below the surface. See if the soil feels moist or dry.
• Give the tree 10-20 gallons of water per week, depending on weather and soil type. A quick way is using a 5-gallon bucket and slowly pouring it around the trunk of the tree.
• If you still have a gator bag from planting, feel free to put that back on! Our team will supply one if you need.

mulch

• If the existing mulch ring isn’t looking too good, feel free to add more mulch around the tree. BUT – don’t let the mulch touch the base of the trunk! A good guide is to clear mulch the width of your hand.
• Mulch provides nutrients and keeps water on top of the critical root zone.
• Remember, most of the tree’s roots are in the top 6” of soil around the trunk (more-so than growing downward).