May 31, 2017
Yard & Garden: Caring for Newly Planted Trees
By Richard Jauron
Iowa State University Extension
Iowa has millions of trees across its landscape, and many are planted each year. But when they are, they require multiple steps and focused care to ensure their success and growth.
ISU Extension and Outreach horticulturists can help answer your questions about how to best care for newly
planted trees. To have additional questions answered, contact the ISU Hortline at (515) 294-3108 or hortline@iastate.edu.
How often should a newly planted tree be watered?
The key to watering newly planted balled and burlapped and container-grown trees is to keep the plant’s root-ball moist for several weeks after planting. Water newly planted trees every day for six or seven days and then gradually reduce the frequency of watering. When watering, slowly apply water to the root-ball and the surrounding soil. A thorough watering every seven to 10 days (in dry weather) should be sufficient four to six weeks after planting. Continue this watering schedule through summer and into fall. Small trees usually require watering for one or two growing seasons. It may be necessary to periodically water large trees for two or three years.
To what degree should a newly planted tree be pruned?
Trees utilize sugars and other carbohydrates manufactured by the foliage for plant growth. Pruning of newly planted trees should be limited to corrective pruning. (Severe pruning reduces the tree’s ability to manufacture food and slows plant growth.) Remove structural defects, such as double leaders and dead, broken or crossing branches. Retain most of the lower branches to help stabilize the tree. The lower branches also provide food for the growing tree. Gradually remove the lower limbs as the tree grows during the first five to 10 years.
Should a newly planted tree be fertilized?
It is generally not necessary to fertilize newly planted trees. Most Iowa soils can supply sufficient amounts of
nutrients during establishment. If the tree is growing poorly two to three years after planting, fertilization may be
beneficial. Poorly growing trees typically exhibit sparse foliage, yellow-green leaves or short annual twig growth.
Should a newly planted tree be staked?
Staking is not required for most newly planted trees. However, top-heavy trees and those planted in windy, exposed sites may require staking. If staking is necessary, allow the trunk to move or sway for proper trunk and root development. To prevent damage to the trunk, use strong, wide strips of canvas, rubber or other materials to support the tree. Remove the stakes as soon as possible. Stakes can often be removed after one growing season.
Should the trunk of a newly planted tree be wrapped?
Wrapping protective materials around the trunks of newly planted trees is usually not necessary. If you do decide to use a tree wrap, place it around the trunk of the tree in fall (November) and promptly remove it the following spring (April). Wrapping the trunks of young trees in fall may
discourage rabbit browsing and sunscald in winter.
Richard Jauron is an Iowa Sate University Extension Horticulturist. For more information call the ISU Hortline at (515) 294-3108 or email rjauron@iastate.edu.
