Once your tree has arrived and is straight in the hole, ensure all strapping is cut away from the top of the basket and bend back the wire loops. Being careful not to damage the roots, cut away the burlap from the top of the root ball and remove. The basket and remaining burlap will gradually decompose and do not need to be removed.

Completely backfill the tree and gently tamp the soil around the root ball to remove air pockets. Leave no more than 1 to 2 inches of soil on top the root ball. We recommend leaving a water well the diameter of the hole and at least 3” high around the base of the tree. Its purpose is to catch and hold water and is only necessary until the tree is established (one full growing season).

Water your tree by filling the well to the top, you may need to re-backfill some areas after the first watering. Continue to water your tree on a regular basis(1-2 good soakings per week) until the root system becomes established. We recommend fertilizing your tree with 10-52-10 mixture to stimulate root growth. Fertilizer can be found at your local garden center, please follow package instructions.

We also recommend placing 3” of bark mulch in the tree well. Not only is bark mulch aesthetically pleasing, it retains moisture, keeps the roots cool, and aids in weed control. We supply shredded pine bark mulch from our Springbank location at a cost of $22 per cubic yard.

A Few Quick Tips and Hints:

Your tree is strong and healthy and has been well-maintained on our yard prior to arriving. The tree should adapt well to its new surroundings and, with proper care, become well established. Here are a few things to watch out for:

1. Your tree is currently surviving on a root system the size of the root ball and until the roots have grown into the soil, it may struggle. The root ball must receive direct watering on a regular basis as the roots cannot yet absorb ground water. Watch your tree carefully for any signs that it is drying out, especially in hot weather. Wilted, droopy, or dry, curled leaves that look as if they are burnt or red, dry needles are a sure indication that your tree requires watering. The best time to water is in the morning or evening.

2. Sometimes a tree may go into shock as a result of the transplanting. This means that it may not be able to support all of its foliage and you may notice desiccation (leaves or needles turning yellow and falling off). This is a normal occurrence, once your tree is established, it will once again flourish. You may also notice that the tree has fewer, smaller leaves than its more established counterpart – this is also a normal result of transplanting. Again, with proper care and time to establish itself, your tree will thrive.

3. Always check your tree for signs of insects or disease. Many insects are most noticeable in the spring and fall and can be controlled or eradicated with simple measures. Early identification is important as pests can reproduce rapidly. Introducing ladybugs, attracting birds as well as controlling weeds will help keep the insect population down in your yard. Severe infestations may require spraying of an insecticide or pesticide. Diseases can be more difficult to identify but may be noticed by the appearance of spotted or blotchy leaves as well as dead or dying foliage or branches. Once identified, treat with disease-specific method and prune away dead or diseased branches. You may wish to seek the advice of a professional before treating pests or diseases to ensure proper and species-specific treatment as well as preventative measures.

4. Pruning is an important part of keeping your tree healthy. Pruning is done to remove dead or diseased branches, to correct damage from wind and weather, to thin dense growth, to create desired shape, as well as encourage fruit and flowers. Before you start, look at the tree from all angles and try to visualize the outcome. Ensure your blades are sharp so that the wood does not tear or split and begin with the obvious problems first, such as dead, broken or diseased branches. Prune by cutting the branch at a 45° angle. Consult a professional for detailed advice or to receive professional pruning service.

Warranty

If you have purchased a complete installation ($95 per tree) then a one year limited warranty applies. We cannot be held responsible for conditions beyond our control such as improper care, herbicide damage, disease or pests. The warranty covers only the cost of the tree, not the cost of the delivery or installation. The original invoice must accompany any replacement. We do not provide cash refunds. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call our office or visit our yard, our knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you.