Congratulations on your new tree!
Care Instructions
● Water
o Deep infrequent soakings. New trees will need to be watered regularly until they become established. Generally, it takes 1 year per caliper inch for a new tree to establish (i.e. 2-inch tree planted will take 2 years to establish).
o Watering should occur in the morning or the evening hours when possible to avoid midday evaporation.
o Soaker hose or a slow stream of water should be applied near the stem of the tree. The amount may vary depending on your soil.
o Drench the soil until you begin to see pooling and runoff, at that time your soil is saturated and can’t absorb any more water.
o There is no need to water if it has rained significantly that day.
o Remember roots also need a period of dry to respire, the soil should not always be saturated or the tree will drown.
Suggested watering schedule | |
Daily for the first two weeks | Depending on temperature and wind, apply 1-2 gallons per inch of trunk diameter. |
Every other day for two months | Depending on temperature and wind, apply 2-4 gallons per inch of trunk diameter. |
Weekly until established (One year per inch of trunk diameter) | Depending on rainfall, water as needed until the soil is saturated. |
● Mulch
o Natural wood/bark mulch is highly recommended for new tree plantings
o Reduces competition from grass, keeps mowers and whackers away, and mitigates soil moisture. o Make the mulch ring as big as possible, 2-4 feet is common
o Apply mulch 1-3 inches thick.
o Keep mulch away from stem of tree to avoid structural and disease issues.
● Staking
o Trees grow in response to some wind stress, and need movement to be strong.
o Only if absolutely needed a tree should be loosely staked to prevent tipping.
o Staking and guying ties should be removed as soon as possible, generally after the first year.
● Fertilizer
o New trees need minimal fertilizer initially and it is recommended to wait until the following season for fertilization. o If desired for poor sites a light slow release fertilizer can be used.
o After establishment trees can benefit from the professionally applied fertilizers like our Bio Pack soil injection fertilization, to increase health and vigor.
● Animal Protection
o New trees are more vulnerable to animal damage such as rabbits, voles, and deer.
o Consider a trunk wrap protector to protect against deer. Especially in the fall and winter.
o Small bushes may be susceptible to rabbit and vole damage. Low fencing around new bushes may help.
● Pruning
o During establishment limit pruning to dead and broken branches
o Soon after establishment professional structural pruning should be done to ensure a good future structure. On a typical young tree a training pruning is recommended after 2-3 years.
o A pruning cycle of every 2-5 years should be established to ensure the proper care for your tree.
o We can monitor your tree on a schedule to keep it safe, healthy, and looking good.
Any Questions? Please let us know. Office: 1813 S 73rd St. Milwaukee, WI 53214
Phone: 414-257-2111
Email: info@hoppetreeservice.com
Web: Hoppetreeservice.com