How to Plant a Tree: Step-by-Step Guide

A practical guide to planting trees the right way. Site selection, hole prep, root handling, mulch and watering, plus tips for four common species.

Beginner GuideCare GuidePlanting Guide

Planting a tree properly is a one-time job that pays back for decades. Get the basics right and the tree thrives with very little input.

Here's the sequence that works for almost any species.

Step 1: Pick the right location

Sun. Most feature trees want full sun. Acer, Camellia and Magnolia tolerate part shade.
Soil. Test drainage and pH. Amend if needed before planting.
Space. Allow for mature size, including root spread.

Step 2: Dig the hole

Width: 2x the root ball diameter.
Depth: Same as the root ball, no deeper. Tree should sit level with surrounding soil.
Shape: Saucer-shaped sides help roots grow outward.

Planting hole shape

Step 3: Prep the root ball

Gently tease out circling roots.
Trim damaged roots with clean shears.
Do not bare-root container-grown trees.

Root ball preparation

Step 4: Position the tree

Place upright with the best face forward.
Top of root ball flush with surrounding soil.
Stake only on exposed sites. Remove stakes after 12 months.

Tree positioned in hole

Step 5: Backfill

Use the soil you dug out, mixed with compost (skip the compost for Olives).
Backfill in layers, gently firming to remove air pockets.
Water as you go to settle the soil.

Step 6: Mulch and water

Apply 50-100mm of organic mulch around the root zone.
Keep mulch clear of the trunk for a healthy collar.
Water deeply once a week through the first summer.

Step 7: Ongoing care

Light prune in winter to shape.
Feed with slow-release fertiliser in early spring.
Check for pests early and treat with low-impact options.

Species-specific notes

Waterhousea floribunda: Wants moist, well-drained soil and steady summer water.

Magnolia x soulangeana: Sheltered position. Plant level for the strongest start.

Olea europaea: Skip the rich compost. Sharp drainage is the priority.

Acer palmatum: Any season works with the right watering rhythm. Part shade only.

FAQs

How often should I water a new tree?
Deep watering once a week through the first summer. Adjust to weather.

When is the best time to plant?
Any season works with the right watering rhythm — summer planting is particularly strong because soils are warm and roots grow fastest, with morning and evening watering for the first two weeks.

Can I plant trees close together for a hedge?
Yes. Hedge spacing is typically 1m apart for fast-growing species.

Take the time on day one and the tree pays you back for years.

Compare at a glance

Cultivar	Height	Width	Form	Foliage	Best if you…
Waterhousea floribunda Weeping Lilly Pilly	6-10m (can be pruned to desired height)	3-5m	Dense, weeping	Glossy dark green weeping foliage with pink new growth	Hedging, screening, fast privacy
Magnolia x soulangeana Saucer Magnolia	4-6m	3-5m	Rounded, open habit	Mid green oval leaves	Feature tree, sheltered courtyards
Olea europaea Olive	4-8m	3-6m	Open, characterful crown	Silver-grey lance-shaped evergreen leaves	Dry sites, Mediterranean gardens
Acer palmatum Japanese Maple	4-6m	3-5m	Open, layered habit	Palmate leaves, brilliant autumn colour	Feature tree, courtyards, woodland gardens