Tree Planting & Care

A beautiful, healthy tree deserves the very best of care. For our customers who prefer the “do-it-yourself” approach, the Narrow Tree team is happy to provide instructions on how to plant and maintain your trees. The steps below are generally applicable across all tree types, but please note that individual trees may require additional levels of care.

If you decide that you don’t want to get your hands quite this dirty, please take advantage of our tree installation services. Our expert crew will ensure that the job is done right.

Tree Planting

Step 1: Select Your Location
Pick a location that will provide plenty of space as your tree grows. (Note the mature size of your tree in its description on our website.) Once you’ve chosen your location, STOP! Call your state’s One-Call System before you dig so they can mark your utilities. Do not put yourself in danger by digging before you have your utilities marked.

Kansas One-Call System: Call 811
Missouri One-Call System: Call 1-800-DIG-RITE

Step 2: Dig Your Hole
Dig a hole for your tree several inches wider than the container or root ball. Score the sides of the hole with a trowel to prevent creating a “bowl” that will not drain. Be sure to dig deep enough that the top of the root ball will be about 1” above ground level.

Step 3: Plant Your Tree Like a Pro
Carefully remove the tree from its container. Loosen or score any roots on the outside of the root ball, and place the tree in the hole with the top of the root ball about 1" above ground level. If the tree is balled and burlapped, remove the twine from around the neck of the tree and cut the burlap from the top only. Do not try to remove the basket as this could cause major disruption of the root system and kill the tree.

Step 4: Back-Fill and Cover
Mix your existing soil with compost (or similar), with 1 part compost to 2 parts existing soil. Back fill half of the hole and then water. This will eliminate air pockets and ensure proper moisture. Back fill the remainder of the hole and apply 2" of mulch, keeping the mulch away from the trunk.

Watering

Using a slow trickle of water, thoroughly soak the newly planted material until it is saturated. Use a root stimulator at this stage and for the first few waterings.

Water weekly or as needed throughout the season until the tree is established. Continue watering monthly during the winter months if you do not receive regular rain or snow.

Staking

Tree staking is recommended for new trees for 1 full year. Use flat, grommeted straps rather than ropes or wires to prevent damage to the trunk. Tie the straps to 2 or 3 posts in the ground.