Planting a tree is one of the most rewarding improvements you can make to your property. Trees provide shade, improve air quality, enhance landscaping, and even increase your home’s value. But for a tree to thrive, it needs to be planted properly. Follow these tips to give your new tree the best start in Maryland and Virginia’s climate.
Choose the Right Tree for Your Space
Selecting the right tree is the first step. Consider how large it will grow, whether it prefers sun or shade, and how it will handle local soil and weather conditions. Trees like oaks, maples, and flowering dogwoods do well in our region, while evergreens such as arborvitae or Leyland cypress are perfect for privacy screens.
Keep these factors in mind:
- Mature size and canopy spread
- Sunlight and soil preferences
- Purpose: shade, privacy, or aesthetic
Thinking ahead ensures your tree won’t interfere with power lines, buildings, or other trees as it grows. Research local nurseries or consult with a horticulturist to choose a tree that will thrive in your specific conditions.
Timing and Site Preparation
The best times to plant in Maryland and Virginia are early spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate and roots can establish before summer heat or winter freeze. Clear the area of grass, weeds, and debris, and make sure the soil is loose enough to encourage root growth.
Dig a hole wider than the root ball but only as deep as the roots. This encourages roots to grow outward naturally rather than circling the hole. Before planting, check for any underground utilities to avoid accidents.
Digging the right hole is vital for the tree’s health:
- Width: The hole should be 2–3 times wider than the root ball to allow roots to spread easily.
- Depth: The hole should be no deeper than the root ball. The top of the root ball should be slightly above ground level to prevent water from pooling around the trunk.
- Shape: The sides of the hole should be sloped outward, resembling a saucer, to encourage outward root growth.
Planting and Initial Care
Before placing the tree in the hole:
- Remove the Tree from Its Container: Gently slide the tree out of its pot. If it’s in a burlap sack, remove as much of the material as possible without disturbing the root ball.
- Inspect the Roots: If the roots are circling the root ball, gently loosen them. If they’re tightly bound, make several vertical cuts along the sides to encourage outward growth.
Place the tree in the hole so the root flare—the point where roots meet the trunk—is visible above the soil line. Backfill with the native soil, gently firming it to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the roots.
Mulching around the base of the tree, keeping it slightly away from the trunk, helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots from temperature extremes. During the first year, monitor your tree for stress, pests, or disease, and prune only damaged or dead branches.
Make Tree Planting Easy with Rock Creek
Planting a tree may seem straightforward, but it can be labor-intensive, and mistakes in placement or soil preparation can hinder growth. That’s where Rock Creek Tree, Turf & Landscape comes in.
Our certified arborists handle everything, including:
- Selecting the right species for your yard
- Proper placement and soil preparation
- Professional planting and initial care
- Follow-up guidance to ensure long-term health
With Rock Creek, your trees get the best start possible, and you can enjoy a thriving, beautiful landscape without the hard work. Whether you want a single shade tree or a full privacy screen, we make planting and caring for your trees simple and stress-free.
Contact Rock Creek today to have your trees professionally planted and watch your Maryland or Virginia yard flourish.