Advice to Grow By

UC Master Gardeners of San Diego County

Hotline (858) 822-6910
www.MasterGardenerSD.org

help@MasterGardenerSD.org

Choose a Healthy Tree

Good trees start in the nursery – take the time to carefully inspect trees before buying.

• Check for root health, sturdy branch structure and a strong central leader.
• Look for potential damage – no signs of topping or damage to trunk or limbs.

Plant Correctly

Planting your tree correctly provides a strong foundation for healthy growth.

• Identify root crown of tree and flare where trunk meets roots.
• Dig a shallow, broad planting hole: roughen sides of hole.
• Fill hole with water and let drain into soil – repeat if soil is very dry.
• Slide specimen out of container and scuff up sides of root ball.
• Place tree upright in hole, facing grafting scars away from sun exposure with root crown above soil line.
• Fill hole gently with original dirt and pack firmly.
• Stake only if tree is falling over without support.
• Spread 3-4” of organic mulch around base of tree, kept 3 inches away from trunk.
• Water deeply 3 days after planting and then once a week for 3 weeks.

Caring for Trees

Train young trees for structure and form.

• Do Not Top Trees.
• Once roots are well established, water deeply and infrequently.
• Protect trees from lawn equipment and chemicals.
• Regularly inspect trees for insect damage – if you suspect disease, consult a Certified Arborist.

Tree Mistakes to Avoid

• Topping and poor pruning techniques disfigure trees and make them susceptible to disease.
• Competing plantings such as grass or weeds growing around the base of the tree compete for moisture
  and nutrients.
• Underwatering trees affects their long-term health; young trees, under five years old, are very vulnerable.

Trees Are an Investment

• Trees help clean the air and reduce energy costs.
• Trees mitigate climate change.
• Trees increase property value and provide habitat for wildlife.
• Trees improve the quality of soil and water.

Selecting the Right Tree

Know Your Tree Before You Plant!

• What are the functions of your tree – shade, privacy, aesthetics – or to provide fruits or nuts?
• Consider tree characteristics – shape, mature height, growth rate, canopy spread, potential root damage and litter type.
• Select trees with genetic resistance to local common pest problems.
• Purchase smallest specimen possible and save money.

Choose the Best Location

• Consider distance from buildings, sidewalks, property, and sewer lines.
• Be a good tree neighbor – keep your tree, roots, leaves, and litter on your own property.
• For Tree Resources conduct the following searches:
  • Call Dig Alert – contact 811 before you dig
  • Tree Safety – SDG&E – watch out for utility lines
  • California Fire Safe Council – be safe and prepared

The Master Gardener Association of San Diego County supports the University of California Master Gardeners of San Diego County. UCANR is an equal opportunity provider and employer.