2 12 R e s to r i n g L a n d a n d Pl a n t i n g Tr ee s
Transplanting seedlings
When the roots of the
seedlings begin to push
through the bottom of the
containers (usually 3 to 4
months after planting) it is
time to transplant them. If
you cannot plant at this time,
trim the roots back once a week.
This helps the tree form a full ball
of roots in the container and keeps
it from rooting in the ground.
Distance
between
trees
Distance
between
trees
Distance
between trees
A month before planting, gradually
remove the shade over the seedlings
Planting in a triangular design allows
many trees to grow in a small area.
until they have the same amount of
sun as the site where they will be planted. This gets the seedlings used to the
sunnier and drier conditions of the planting site.
The day before planting, water the seedlings so the containers will be wet.
Transport them carefully, being sure not to damage the roots. Mark where
you want to plant each seedling. The distance between trees depends on the
type of tree and the reason for planting. As a general rule, plant trees so their
branches will just touch when full grown.
Clean all weeds or brush that might shade the seedlings or compete with
them for water in a 1 meter circle around the planting area. Plant in early
morning or the cool hours of the late afternoon to protect the trees from sun.
Avoid damaging or drying out the roots while planting.
Dig square holes 1½ times as deep
as the containers. Round holes
prevent roots from reaching into
the surrounding soil.
Fill the hole with soil so the base of the
trunk will be level with the ground when
the hole is filled. You may want to add a
few handfuls of compost or rich, black soil
to help the tree get started. After planting,
soak the soil around the tree with water.
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012