Caring for Young Trees

The proper care of young trees can prevent many future problems. Browse our resources to learn more about how to best care for seedlings and young trees.

Planting

Ten steps to planting success

Successful establishment of new plantings is dependent on correctly matching species to site and creating a soil environment that will allow new transplants to rapidly regenerate a root system. The following 10 steps will help ensure planting success.

Tree planting discussion with Bartlett Tree Experts arborist. Inspecting for proper planting techniques helps to ensure that a tree’s root collar is located above grade.

Mulching application guidelines

Mulches provide many benefits for trees and shrubs. However, excess mulch can actually be damaging. These guidelines will provide information on how to properly mulch trees and shrubs.

Irrigation

Moisture deficiency and over-watering can significantly affect plant health and survival of landscape plants.

Regular Care

Caring for newly planted trees

When trees are first planted, there is an establishment period lasting at least two years when intensive maintenance is required.

Caring for young established trees

Because the value and benefits of landscape plants increase as they grow, promoting rapid growth is generally a key objective when managing young plants.

Structural pruning of young trees

Structural pruning of young, developing trees provides a desirable and stable form at maturity and is one of the best investments that consumers can make in their landscape.

Structural pruning of young trees

When a tree starts to grow, it can do so in an erratic pattern and introduce defects where a mature tree can fail. Structural pruning corrects these defects to help ensure success and longevity of new plantings.

Pruning landscape trees

Four basic pruning techniques are used to maintain trees. Depending on tree requirements, client expectations and budget, one or more of the techniques will be used to maintain the plant.

Addressing Problems

Simple steps to aid stressed trees

What can be done to help plants experiencing stress? Providing optimal growing conditions can help aid in recovery and position trees to best withstand future issues.

Root collar disorders

A tree’s root collar is the area where the roots join the main stem or trunk, and is not specialized to resist constant soil moisture. Soil against the lower stem and flare tissues can lead to infection and disease caused by certain pathogenic fungi.

Root collar excavation

A video that explores problems posed by excess soil and mulch around the base of tree.

Girdling roots

Girdling roots are usually lateral roots at or slightly below the soil line that cut into at least one side of the main trunk. These roots are an issue as they restrict the tree’s access to water and nutrients.

 

Ask the Experts

Experiencing a problem with a tree or shrub?
Ask an expert about it or search our resources.

Latest News

Being a leader in the tree care industry means continually focusing on learning and innovation. Bartlett’s Tree Topics blog follows in that tradition by offering a place to receive advice on trees, tree pests, tree preservation, and more.

Make an appointment with your local Arborist Representative to discover why Bartlett is the leader in professional tree care.