Planting a tree in your garden gives it a whole new dimension, adding height and structure. You can plant trees at any time of year, but winter is the ideal time for planting, giving them a great start. Here's why you should plant a tree in winter. Please visit our garden centre, we have a wide range of beautiful trees, from small to large.
Why winter is a good time to plant trees
Deciduous trees drop their leaves in autumn and are dormant in winter, with only their roots doing any growing, so planting them now gives time for the roots to settle in before the trees start putting on leaves again in spring. Evergreen trees grow more slowly in winter but keep their leaves, so they will need to take up more water than deciduous trees through the winter months. This isn't usually a problem, as winter rains mean trees planted at this time of year need far less watering than trees planted in summer.
Tips on planting trees in winter
Trees can be planted at any time in winter as long as the soil is not water-logged or forzen.
- Before you start, soak the pot in water.
- Meanwhile, dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the pot, adding a good-quality tree-planting compost and some Rootgrow to the hole.
- Remove the tree from the pot and loosen the roots to encourage them to grow into the soil.
- Place the tree in the hole and ensure that it is level with the soil around it (you don't want to cover any of the stem).
- Backfill the hole and firm down the soil.
- Water the area well and add a layer of mulch such as composted bark or soil conditioner around the base (approximately 10cm radius). If your garden is prone to hungry wildlife, add a tree guard to protect the stem.
- To keep your tree upright, add a stake alongside it at a 45-degree angle or upright, depending upon preference. Remember to position the stake to protect the tree from prevailing winds and then use a tree tie around the stem to secure it.
If you're looking for a new tree for your garden, come in and see our wide range of deciduous and evergreen trees. You'll find everything you need for your garden in our centre!
