There are few things more satisfying to a homeowner than planting trees. It is, quite literally, an example of someone putting roots down and declaring he/she is going to be there for decades to come. What’s better than planting a tree and watching it grow and fully mature? Planting a tree so that you can have shade while you’re frolicking in the pool this summer! Planting trees in spring and planting trees in summertime are timeless traditions embarked upon by countless homeowners new and old every year. It’s great to join in the fun, to set down roots for posterity and also to know that you’ll be cool in those shady spots of the pool all throughout the hot summer months. But there are some tips you should keep in mind before planting trees. Read on for more and enjoy one of the great “coming of age” moments as a homeowner!
—Whether you are planting trees from scratch or merely transporting them, it’s important to know how big they will eventually grow. This will help you decide where to plant the trees. Do you want a large tree to grow near the house so that it provides shade? Or do you prefer the tree to generate shade in the middle of the yard and cover parts of your pool and deck? As much fun as it is planting trees in summertime, it takes a lot of work, so make sure your trees are where you want them to be before you start digging!
—Once you decide where you want the tree(s), you must make sure the hole you build is the correct size. Sounds easy, but it’s more challenging than it might appear. In fact, many people make the mistake of digging a hole that is too narrow AND too deep. This double-edged whammy means that the roots won’t have the oxygen to maximize their growth and the root structure won’t expand enough to anchor and nourish the tree. Don’t plant trees too close to your pool, because over time, their expanding root system could compromise the integrity of your pool basin and encourage cracking. Contact a landscaper to help you out with digging the perfect hole and ensuring it will be a perfect spot for the tree to grow.
—Transporting trees is challenging, but often less expensive than planting trees “from scratch.” If you decide to transport a tree, make sure it is not placed any deeper than it was in the soil in which it originally grew. Doing this will ensure that the tree’s root structure has enough earth in which to establish itself.
—If you decide that planting trees “from scratch” is the way to go, make sure the soil in which they will be planted is healthy and prepared. Fertilization of soil for new trees is not recommended unless there’s something wrong with the soil. You’ll need plenty of space to dig the type of hole necessary to grow a new tree—at least twice the root system’s diameter yet no deeper than the root system’s depth, so keep in mind the location of your pool, deck, or lily pond when deciding where to plant. Make sure there are plenty of “pore spaces” allowing air, water and some new landscape soil to join the existing soil, as these will improve the odds the tree survives and thrives.
Planting trees in summertime is a great way to spend your vacation months – not only do you get the benefit of shade when you’re in the pool or poolside, but you get added privacy from the outside world. Be well-prepared before beginning the project and you’ll be able to plant something that will be a source of pride and joy as long as you own the house!