Spring is the best window for planting deciduous trees. Soil warms, dormancy breaks and the tree wakes into a full growing season. Get three things right and the establishment phase looks after itself.
Tip 1: Wait for soil to warm
Deciduous trees only push roots once soil temperature hits 12-15°C. Plant too early and the rootball sits cold and inactive, with risk of rot. Test by feel. If the soil feels cool but not cold, you're right.
Most southern Australian regions hit the sweet spot in early to mid September. Warmer northern regions can plant from late August.
Tip 2: Deep planting hole, level placement
Dig the hole twice the rootball width but only as deep as the rootball itself. Plant level with the surrounding soil. Trees planted deeper than the original soil mark develop root collar rot.
Loosen the sides of the hole if soil is compacted. Backfill with the original soil, no need to mix in compost. The tree needs to adapt to its actual soil.
Tip 3: Deep weekly watering through summer one
Deep weekly soakings build deep roots. Shallow daily watering builds shallow roots that fail. Use a slow drip at the dripline for 30-45 minutes once a week. Two soakings in extreme heat.
Mulch heavily after planting. 7-10cm of woodchip or bark holds moisture and suppresses weeds for 12-18 months.
Three deciduous picks for spring
Each delivers strong first-year results from spring planting.
FAQs
How wet should the rootball be at planting?
Moist, not dry. Soak the pot for 15 minutes before planting if it's dry.
Do I need to prune at planting?
Only remove damaged or crossing branches. Heavy pruning at planting stresses the tree further.
When can I fertilise?
Wait at least six months after planting. Use balanced fertilisers for deciduous trees.
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