July is really not the time to talk about tree planting, but we saw a disaster happening yesterday that illustrates the necessity of planting correctly. This white pine was probably a balled and burlapped tree. When you plant a potted or burlapped tree you need to get down on your knees and dig your hole to the proper depth. Bust up the soil at the bottom and adjust the hole depth so the soil on the tree is level with the surrounding soil. Remove the pot/burlap, and set the tree in the hole, and make it plumb/vertical. Then get out your pruners or a sharp knife and cut all of the circling roots. Circling roots will girdle, stunt, and ultimately kill the tree if you leave them. Fill in the hole, compact it in with your little shovel, and water down the soil. A little more fill can go in then. Use a small shovel or entrenchin tool. A long handled shovel is awkward and your result will be sloppy, with air spaces around the perimeter. Small shovel, on your knees, plumb stem, pruned roots, no air space, water. Enjoy your tree the rest of your life.
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