Planting Techniques
A tree that is properly planted will be more
tolerant of unfavorable conditions and will require less water,
fertiliser and pest management. Seedlings may die if the roots
are damaged, not covered with enough soil or if they are planted
in waterlogged soils. Smaller plants are less likely to suffer
transplant shock.
Handling
Seedlings should be protected from root,
stem and foliage damage when transported to the planting site
and watered well the night before planting. Try to avoid planting
on hot, dry or windy days or if the ground is very wet. Planting
on overcast days or in light rain is best: the soil should
be damp. If there is a need to delay planting by more than
a few days, the seedlings should be protected from wind, excessive
heat and moisture loss. Additional care must be taken when
handling open rooted stock.
Planting
Planting method will depend on the type
of stock. In most cases trees should be planted at the same
depth as when grown in the pot or nursery bed. If herbicides
have been used avoid mixing the surface soil into the planted
hole. Plants in tubes are most easily planted using a planting
tool that removes a plug of soil of the same size and shape
as the pot. Open rooted trees can be planted in well prepared
ground using a small spade.
Guards, stakes and mulch
If time and resources permit, planting
trees in guards will offer some protection from water stress
and pests. Staking should be avoided as exposure to wind encourages
the tree to develop a firm stem. For this reasons small seedlings
are preferred. Mulch is useful for slowing weed growth, maintaining
soil moisture, and if it is organic, nutrients. Applying mulch
too close to the trunk may cause fungal growth that will kill
the plant. Placing plastic guards around seedlings, with the
help of stakes, can create a favourable microclimate for growth
by protecting the plant from wind and water loss. However
it is important to remove the guards once the seedlings have
become well established so that they do not restrict further
growth.
Because the choice of planting technique
depends on so many factors it is best to learn from others
in your region or consult your supplier.
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