Advice to Grow By
UC Master Gardeners of San Diego County
Hotline (858) 822-6910
www.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.