APRIL | Expert Tips for Planting and Transplanting Trees in Omaha: Insights from a Professional Arborist and Tree Service
April is the appropriate time to apply fungicides, but the big topic this time of year is planting and transplanting! While this article contains advice geared for this activity, you will find useful tips that apply to keeping your established & mature trees healthy and thriving:
Spring Transplanting in Nebraska
Are you planning to plant or transplant trees this spring? Here's what you need to know. While larger caliper trees creates more of an immediate impact to the landscape, smaller trees recover faster from transplant shock. Smaller trees usually catch up and frequently will outgrow their larger counterparts.
The five components that are most critical to the success of a transplant are plant selection, proper planting technique, mulch installation, adequate water supply, and responsible use of staking devices.
Quick tips for picking a tree
The three main options for tree selection in Omaha are containerized, ball & burlap, & large spaded trees. When picking tree, consider the following tips:
Look for a tree with a healthy root system & good plant vigor.
Choose a tree with a straight trunk and a balanced crown.
Check for any signs of damage, disease, or insect infestation.
Make sure the tree is the appropriate size for your planting location.
Consider the tree's mature height and spread to avoid arial & underground structures & utilities.
Choose a tree that is suited to your climate and soil conditions.
Plan ahead for the tree's transportation and planting needs.
Proper Species Selection
Proper species selection is essential for a successful transplant. Consider factors such as the amount of sunlight, soil type, and climate when choosing plants. Omaha is a Zone 5 climate with loess soil, although soil conditions can vary from yard to yard. Opt for native species that are adapted to your area to promote biodiversity and ensure long-term sustainability. Don't forget to also consider maintenance requirements and the overall aesthetic. We always recommend "right plant, right place"!
If you are looking for guidance on which trees to plant in Omaha, Nebraska, check out the top 7 trees we are planting in Omaha this year.
Troubleshooting Root Encircling
Containerized plants are prone to encircling root masses. This may look like roots swirling around the container, growing into one another. Encircling roots will cause structural problems and premature loss of your tree. If you have noticed encircling roots, you have 2 options. You can either A) Select a different tree or B) cut the problematic roots at the time of planting.
You can accomplish this by cutting an "X" on the bottom of the root ball. Continue the lines of the "X" up the sides of the root ball. To ensure success, use a very sharp knife. You want a clean cut, without tearing.
How to Plant A Tree Properly
If you opt for a containerized tree or ball & burlap, remove the soil from the top until trunk begins to flare. This is the true base of the trunk, and the line indicating proper planting depth. The surrounding soil level should meet, and not exceed the flare.
When planting a ball and burlap tree, start by digging a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball. For containerized trees, aim for 3-4 times the width of the container. Place the tree in the hole and make sure that the flare at the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill the hole with the soil you removed and water it thoroughly. Finally, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture. When planting a tree in Nebraska, it is not necessary to add amendments or fertilizer.
Adequately watering your newly transplanted trees is critical to their success, which brings us to our next tip...
Make Watering A Priority
Heavy spring rains are typical for this time of year, but if 2023 April showers leave something to be desired, augmentation may be necessary. Trees need an inch of water per week, either from rainfall or hose & sprinkler systems. Sprinkler systems are often set for turf management, but are oftentimes not appropriate for the needs of trees.
A slow trickle is most effective to provide deep root nourishment. An alternate way to provide a trickle water to hard to reach areas would be the commercially sold watering bags.
Responsible Tree Staking
Only stake a tree if necessary. For example, if you live in a high wind area. Trees in smaller containers are more likely to require this assistance. This measure is less necessary for ball & burlap. If you choose to stake newly planted trees, only do so for one growing season. Remove staking devices before next growing season. If you leave staking devices on for more than one year, they make trees weaker and can even cause strangulation when bark grows into the device.
Don’t Forget!
Do you have items left over from your March to-do list? If you have not already taken care of the following, you will want to do so now:
Ash Tree Analysis- If your Ash tree is not currently being treated for Emerald Ash Borer, you should have it assessed in Feb - April. Treatments should be scheduled with an Omaha Arborist for mid-May to mid-tune.
Spring Mulching - Apply or reapply mulch. See Tip #2 on out March Tree Care Tips for more information on best practices for mulching in the Midwest.