How to Plant a Tree or Shrub the Right Way

Give your plant the best start

How you plant a tree or shrub largely decides whether it thrives or struggles. Get the basics right and it’ll establish strong roots and grow for years. Here’s how to do it properly.

Choose the right spot

Pick a location with the right sunlight for your plant and enough room for it to reach its full size — both above ground and for the roots. Keep large trees away from walls, drains, and foundations.

Dig the right hole

Dig a hole about two to three times wider than the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself. A wide hole lets roots spread easily; planting too deep suffocates the plant.

Loosen the roots

Gently tease out any tightly circling or root-bound roots before planting, so they grow outward into the soil rather than strangling the plant.

Plant at the right level

Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with (or just above) the surrounding soil. Don’t bury the stem or trunk base — keep it at its natural soil line.

Backfill and firm gently

Fill the hole with the original soil (mixed with some compost), firming gently to remove air pockets without compacting it hard. Create a small water basin around the base.

Water deeply and mulch

Water thoroughly right after planting to settle the soil and the roots. Add a layer of mulch around the base (kept away from the trunk) to hold moisture and suppress weeds.

Stake if needed

Tall saplings may need staking against wind until established — tie loosely so the trunk can still flex, and remove the stake once the plant is anchored.

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