How to Properly Plant Trees and Shrubs for Long-Term Success
Updated: 2 days ago
Planting a tree or shrub is one of the best investments you can make in your landscape. A properly planted tree can thrive for decades, while a poorly planted one may struggle.
The good news is that planting correctly is simple when you follow a few important steps.
Before You Plant
Choose the Right Plant for the Right Place
Before digging, consider:
How much sun the plant needs
The mature height and width
Soil conditions
Drainage
Proximity to buildings, driveways, and power lines.
A tree planted in the wrong location can become a maintenance problem down the road if it doesn't have enough space to grow.
Important: Before you dig, you must contact Ontario One Call to request a locate. They ask for 5 business days in advance of digging.
Step 1: Dig the Proper Hole
The planting hole is one of the most important factors in establishing healthy roots.
Dig the hole:
2 to 3 times wider than the root ball
The same depth as the root ball
A wide planting hole allows new roots to spread easily into the surrounding soil.
When placing the tree or shrub in the hole, the top of the root ball should sit level with the surrounding ground. Avoid planting too deeply, as this can lead to poor growth and long-term stress.
Step 2: Prepare the Root Ball
For Container-Grown Plants
Remove the pot and inspect the roots.
If roots are circling around the outside of the root ball:
Loosen them gently by hand
Tease roots outward where possible
This encourages roots to grow into the surrounding soil rather than continuing to circle within the original root ball.
For Balled and Burlapped Plants
Once the plant is in the hole:
Remove any ropes, twine, or straps securing the root ball
Fold the burlap down and away from the top of the root ball
This allows roots to establish more easily in the surrounding soil.
Step 3: Backfill with a Blend of Native Soil and Amendments
The soil used to refill the planting hole plays an important role in helping new plants establish.
For most trees and shrubs, a 50/50 blend of your existing soil and a quality planting mix or compost works well. This combination provides improved organic matter and moisture retention while still encouraging roots to grow into the surrounding native soil.
As you backfill:
Mix the soils together thoroughly before adding them to the hole
Break up any large clumps
Gently firm the soil around the root ball to remove large air pockets
Avoid using only triple mix, compost, or other highly amended soils. When the planting hole is filled entirely with rich soil, roots may remain within that area rather than expanding outward into the surrounding landscape.
The goal is to create a gradual transition between the root ball and the native soil so roots can establish quickly and naturally.
Step 4: Water Thoroughly
Water immediately after planting.
A deep watering helps:
Settle the soil around the roots
Remove remaining air pockets
Provide moisture to newly disturbed roots
For the first growing season, consistent watering is critical.
General Watering Guidelines
Newly planted trees:
Deeply water 1–2 times per week
Newly planted shrubs:
Check soil moisture regularly
Water when the top few inches of soil begin to dry
Hot, windy weather may require more frequent watering.
Remember: a slow, deep watering is much more effective than a quick daily sprinkle.
Step 5: Mulch Properly
Apply 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) of mulch around the planting area.
Benefits include:
Conserving soil moisture
Reducing weeds
Moderating soil temperatures
Improving soil quality over time
Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk or stems of the plant.
Avoid piling mulch against the trunk, as excessive moisture around the base can lead to rot and other issues.
Step 6: Staking Only When Necessary
Most trees do not require staking.
Consider staking only if:
The site is very windy
The root ball is unstable
The tree cannot stand upright on its own
If stakes are used:
Allow some movement of the trunk
Remove stakes after one growing season
A small amount of movement helps trees develop stronger trunks and root systems.
Common Planting Mistakes to Avoid
Planting Too Deep
The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
Overwatering
Roots need both water and air. Soil that stays too wet can damage roots and prevent the plant from getting established properly.
Underwatering
Newly planted trees and shrubs rely on regular watering until their root systems become established.
Using Only Planting Mix
Roots establish best when there is a gradual transition between amended soil and native soil.
Mulching Against the Trunk
Always leave a small gap between mulch and the trunk or stems.
The First Year Matters Most
Trees and shrubs spend much of their first year establishing roots rather than producing significant top growth. This is completely normal.
Focus on:
Proper watering
Mulching
Monitoring for signs of stress
Avoiding excessive fertilizer applications
With proper planting and care, your new tree or shrub will develop a strong root system and provide beauty, shade, privacy, and enjoyment for many years to come.
Using a root simulator like Root Rescue when you plant gives your new tree a healthy start that lasts a lifetime.
How to Apply Root Rescue
Mix the solution: Stir the powder into a watering can filled with water according to the package directions.
Saturate the roots: Pour the mixture directly over the roots and surrounding soil as you plant to help the tree settle in.
Enjoy lifelong benefits: The natural fungi in the mix connect to the roots permanently, helping your tree absorb water and nutrients for the rest of its life.
Need Help?
Not sure how to plant your new tree or shrub? Our staff can help you select the right soil amendments, explain proper planting techniques, and answer questions about watering and long-term care to ensure your landscape gets off to a healthy start.
