How to Plant a Tree

If you’re looking to enhance your property with natural beauty, planting trees is one of the best investments you can make. A well-placed tree boosts curb appeal, provides shade, and enriches local ecosystems. However, a tree’s long-term health depends on how it’s planted, and learning how to plant a tree properly can make all the difference in its growth and longevity.

In this guide, we’ve adapted the University of Florida’s recommendations into ten essential steps for effective tree planting. Whether you’re new to the process or simply need a refresher, these practical tips will ensure your new tree enjoys a strong start and thrives for decades to come.

1. Estimate the Planting Hole Depth

Accurately measuring your planting hole depth is crucial for healthy root development. When planting a tree, aim to place the root flare slightly above the soil line—especially if your site has poor drainage. Tree planting at a higher level helps protect against waterlogged roots, reducing stress and disease in newly planted trees. If you dig too deep, simply backfill and lightly compact the soil to reach the proper height, ensuring a solid foundation for the tree’s long-term growth.

2. Dig the Hole Wider Than You Think

When planting a tree, many people focus only on depth, but a wider hole is just as critical—especially in clay or compacted soil. As a rule of thumb, dig at least 1.5 times the diameter of the root ball to promote healthy, outward root growth. If your soil is particularly tight, consider loosening or breaking up the ground out to the drip line, ensuring your newly planted tree has the room it needs to establish strong, resilient roots.

3. Locate the Root Flare

Identifying the root flare is a crucial step in tree planting because it’s where the trunk transitions to the root system—often appearing vase-like at the base. Before planting a tree, clear away any excess soil so the flare remains visible. Setting the root flare at or slightly above the soil grade prevents deep planting issues, helping your new tree establish healthy, well-anchored roots.

4. Remove Problematic Roots and Circling Mats

One of the most overlooked steps in tree planting is checking the root ball for any circling or kinked roots. Gently remove or loosen these problematic areas before placing the tree into the ground. If left untreated, girdling roots can eventually strangle the trunk, leading to severe health issues or even tree failure over time. By addressing these defects now, you’ll support healthier, more stable root development and set your new tree up for lasting success.

5. Eliminate Synthetic Materials

When planting a tree, it’s essential to remove any synthetic materials—such as containers, burlap, wire cages, or twine—that can restrict root growth. These items often trap moisture in the root ball, leading to waterlogged soil or stunted roots. By carefully cutting away all non-biodegradable materials, you create an open environment where the tree’s roots can spread freely. This simple yet crucial step helps ensure the new tree adapts quickly to its surroundings and promotes healthy, long-term growth.

6. Position the Tree in the Hole

Positioning is everything. Gently lower the topmost root or root flare so it’s 1–2 inches above the final soil line—raising it even higher in soggy or poorly drained areas to prevent waterlogged roots. Before backfilling, step back and view the trunk from two perpendicular angles to confirm it’s upright. This careful approach to tree planting helps ensure stable, long-term growth.

7. Backfill with Care

When learning how to plant a tree, proper backfilling is vital for stable, healthy roots. Start by loosening the backfill soil, slicing it 20–30 times with a shovel to break up large clumps—this improves aeration and allows emerging roots to spread freely. Gently press the soil to remove air pockets, but avoid over-compacting or heavily tamping it, especially in wet conditions. If you’re planting trees in a large hole, work in layers and water each layer to help everything settle. By keeping the root ball slightly above the surrounding soil, you set the stage for optimal drainage and long-term success in your tree planting efforts.

8. Water Thoroughly

For successful tree planting, proper watering is essential to help roots establish quickly. After placing your tree and partially backfilling, add 10–20 gallons of water around the root ball and the surrounding soil. This step removes air pockets and ensures immediate moisture for the new roots, reducing transplant shock. Avoid heavy tamping—allow water infiltration to naturally settle the soil without compressing it too much, promoting healthy, uncompacted ground.

9. Mulch Properly

Proper mulching offers vital benefits like weed suppression, temperature moderation, and improved soil health. After planting a new tree, spread a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around its base, extending outward about 2–3 feet per inch of trunk caliper. Avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk—often called a “mulch volcano”—because it can trap moisture and invite pests or disease. By keeping mulch in a donut shape, you allow air to circulate around the trunk, supporting strong root growth and long-term tree vitality.

10. Add Support and Minimal Pruning

Stake the tree only if necessary (e.g., high winds, very loose root ball). Over-staking can hinder trunk development, so remove stakes as soon as the tree can stand on its own. Prune only damaged, dead, or clearly crossed branches to focus the tree’s energy on healthy growth.

Keep Your Tree Thriving with a Certified Arborist

After planting a new tree, schedule a consultation with a SavATree certified arborist to ensure your tree receives proper aftercare. We can advise on fertilization schedules, ongoing watering needs, pest and disease prevention, and more.

Why Proper Planting Matters

Stronger Roots: Correct planting and soil preparation help roots anchor firmly, reducing the risk of leaning or toppling in storms.
Healthier Growth: Proper depth, adequate drainage, and structured backfill all play vital roles in boosting the tree’s long-term resilience.
Fewer Maintenance Headaches: A well-planted tree is less likely to experience root girdling, pest issues, or trunk decay, saving you time and money.

For hands-on help or more detailed advice on how to plant a tree, SavATree’s certified arborists stand ready to assist. We’ll create customized solutions based on your soil type, local climate, and specific landscape goals.

By planting trees correctly from the start and providing the right follow-up care, you pave the way for a thriving, beautiful landscape that benefits both you and your community for years to come. Contact us today to continue proper tree care for your landscape.

Citation: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). (n.d.). Planting and establishing trees (EP314). https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/documents/EP314.pdf

How to Plant a Tree: The Ultimate Guide