Backyard Forest Stewardship in Western Washington
Planting Trees and Shrubs
Trees can enhance the aesthetic, environmental, and economic value of your property. Here are some tips for success:
Plant Selection
Pick the right tree for the right purpose. What is the tree's purpose? If for shade, the tree should be large and sturdy. For aesthetics, the tree should feature a graceful form and showy foliage or flowers. For wildlife, berry-producing shrubs are useful. For ornamental purposes, a wide variety of species and sizes are available. For forest plantings, seedlings of native tree and shrub species are preferred.
Pick the right tree for the available space. Many species become very large. If planted in a confined area, the tree may become a problem. Avoid planting large forest or shade tree species in areas with limited space for root or crown growth (next to homes, under power lines, near sewer or water lines, driveways). If space is limited, select a smaller tree species.
Pick the right tree for the environmental conditions. Many species require full sunlight and well drained soils and will not survive in shady or wet sites. Match the species requirements with the site conditions and avoid planting species not suitable for our climate, or those susceptible to insect and disease problems. Use native trees whenever possible.
Use seedlings from the right seed source. Forest seedlings should be from the same approximate latitude and elevation as the planting site. When purchasing seedlings from a nursery, ask about the seed source and confirm that it is appropriate for your location.
Planting Seedlings
Plant at the right time. Trees should be planted when they are dormant. Avoid planting during the growing season or when the soil is frozen. January-April is best for forest seedlings. Avoid planting on excessively hot, cold or windy days.
Handle seedlings with care. Do not expose the delicate roots to cold or wind, as they dry out quickly. Place seedlings in a pail or planting bag, keeping roots covered with wet cloth or similar moist material. Remove only one seedling at a time from the planting container.
Plant your tree right. Take the extra time to dig a planting hole that will be large enough to accommodate all of the roots. Avoid planting errors such as tangled roots, air pockets, foreign objects in hole, and planting too deep or shallow. Use the natural soil to fill the planting hole.
Protect young trees from browsers. After planting, provide protection for the seedlings from animal damage -- use tubing or bud caps until the tree gets a good start.
Give your new tree a helping hand. In the forest, control competing brush and weeds around small seedlings. For ornamental plantings, establish a "tree well" and mulch the area around newly planted shade trees. Mulch keeps weeds down, conserves moisture, adds nutrients as mulch breaks down, and protects trees from lawnmowers and weed trimmers. Use supplemental irrigation or shade where necessary.
Additional resources:
Small Trees for the Home Landscape
Planting guidelines for balled and burlapped trees
Successful reforestation: an overview
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