Tree planting and establishment

Tree Planting

Selection of trees for planting should consider the intended purpose, local conditions, and the specific needs of the tree species.
Tree planting initiatives are carried out to establish new forests, rehabilitate degraded lands, and improve urban environments.
Trees can be planted as seeds, seedlings, or saplings depending on the species, site conditions, and time of year.
Planting depth is critical; it should be enough to cover the roots and provide stability, but not so deep that the stem base is buried.
The planting hole should be wide and shallow rather than narrow and deep.
Care should be taken to ensure that the root system is spread out in the planting hole to prevent spiralling or ‘J-rooting’.

Watering newly planted trees is vital to assist establishment, with frequency depending on weather conditions and soil type.
Mulch can help to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep soil temperatures steady, promoting better root growth.
Use of tree shelters or guards can help to protect young trees from damage by pests or unfavourable weather conditions.
Trees should be staked if needed to provide initial support, but these should be removed as soon as the tree is established to prevent dependence.
Regular monitoring and maintenance is necessary to check for common problems such as disease, pests, water stress, and damage.
Pruning can be done to remove dead or diseased branches, and to shape the tree, but should be done carefully as excessive pruning can stress the tree.

Soil analysis should be done in advance to understand nutrient levels, pH, and drainage capabilities.
Good site preparation will improve the chances of successful tree establishment. This can involve weed control and soil cultivation.
Spacing between trees will depend on the species and the intended purpose of the tree planting. Dense spacing can provide quick canopy cover, while wider spacing might be better for timber production.

Most trees are planted during dormancy, typically in late autumn or early spring.
The planting season can depend on the tree species and local weather conditions; some species prefer to be planted in colder months, while others prefer the warmer growing season.