Spring is the planting window. Soil is warming, day length is extending, and trees planted now have the full growing season ahead to establish a root system before summer stress arrives. Five steps below cover the spring prep brief, with five trees suited to the planting window.
Step 1: Clean Up
Start with cleanliness. Remove dead leaves, fallen branches, and debris accumulated through winter. These create breeding ground for pests and disease.
- Prune dead branches from trees and shrubs.
- Rake fallen leaves so sunlight reaches soil.
- Weed thoroughly before new growth pushes.
Step 2: Test Your Soil
A soil test gives you pH and nutrient deficiency data. Amend with compost or well-rotted manure to improve texture, fertility and drainage. Aerate compacted areas to encourage deeper roots.
Step 3: Plan New Plantings
Pick trees that suit your garden's design and conditions. Five spring-suited choices below.
Magnolia grandiflora 'Coolwyn Gloss'
An evergreen Magnolia that comes into its own through spring as new foliage emerges with a soft rust-orange flush before settling to glossy dark green. Large fragrant white summer flowers follow. Can be pruned to desired height.
Olea europaea 'Manzanillo'
Spring flush of silver new foliage, followed by cream flowers and a productive olive set. Light prune before flower emerges to set fruit position.
Pyrus nivalis
Pure white spring blossom on bare branches before silver summer foliage emerges. The spring showpiece. Complete any pruning before bud break.
Lagerstroemia indica 'Natchez'
Spring is when Crepe Myrtle hits its prep stride. New growth pushes from spring with the flower buds set into mid-summer brilliance. Tip prune only, never top-prune.
Acer palmatum
Spring is when Acer palmatum unfurls its delicate new lobed leaves in fresh apple green. Mulch in early spring to protect roots. Avoid pruning during sap rise.
Step 4: Mulch and Fertilise
Apply a 75mm layer of coarse organic mulch around the base of each tree, kept clear of the trunk. Use a slow-release fertiliser for steady nutrients through the growing season. Water deeply after mulching.
Step 5: Irrigation and Ongoing Care
Spring is the time to check irrigation. Inspect for leaks, set systems to water deeply and infrequently, and check soil moisture before each watering. Deep infrequent water builds deep root systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water newly planted trees?
Deep watering twice a week through the first summer. Soil should be consistently moist but never waterlogged.
Can I plant trees in early spring?
Yes. Early spring is the ideal planting window. Soil is warming and trees get the full growing season to establish.
What if my soil is too acidic or alkaline?
Amend with lime for acidic soils, sulfur for alkaline. A soil test guides the adjustment.
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