CARING FOR YOUR NEW TREE
Planting a tree is a rewarding investment in your landscape, but the work doesn’t stop after it's in the ground. Proper care during the first few months—and even the first few years—is critical to ensure your tree grows strong, healthy, and resilient. Whether you’ve planted a shade tree, flowering tree, or ornamental species, following these essential care steps will give it the best start possible.
Here are the tips in caring for your newly planted tree.
1
Watering
-
First 2 weeks: Water every day (especially in hot weather).
-
3rd to 12th week: Water 2–3 times per week.
-
After 3 months: Water once a week, depending on rainfall.
-
Use deep watering: Let water soak down to the roots (5–10 gallons per inch of trunk diameter).
-
Avoid overwatering—roots need oxygen too.
2
Mulching
-
Apply a 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the base.
-
Keep mulch 2–3 inches away from the trunk to avoid rot.
-
Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds
3
Staking (Only if Needed)
-
Stake only if the tree is unstable or in a very windy area.
-
Remove stakes after 1 year to avoid girdling the trunk.
-
Tie loosely with soft materials to avoid damage.
4
Pruning
-
Prune only dead, broken, or crossing branches during the first year.
-
Wait until the second or third year for major shaping.
-
Never “top” a tree (cutting the top off weakens it permanently)
5
Fertilizing
-
Avoid fertilizer the first year.
-
In year two, apply slow-release fertilizer only if growth is poor.
-
A soil test can help determine what nutrients may be needed.
6
Protection
-
Use a tree guard or mesh around the trunk if there are animals (like deer or rodents).
-
Keep lawn equipment like weed eaters and mowers away from the trunk.
7
Monitor Regularly
-
Check for pests, diseases, or signs of stress (wilting, leaf spots, etc.).
-
Look for good leaf color, flexible branches, and steady growth.
8
Avoid Soil Compaction
-
Don’t park or walk heavily around the root zone (typically as wide as the tree canopy).
9
Keep Competing Plants Away
-
Remove grass or weeds in a 2–3 ft radius from the trunk.
-
Competition for water and nutrients can stress young trees.
10
Be Patient
-
Trees grow slowly. It may take 1–2 years just to establish roots.
-
Healthy roots = healthy tree later on.
Extra Tips For Planting Oak Trees In Texas
If you're in the Texas Hill Country, water deeply but sparingly. Avoid planting oaks in low areas where water stands after rain. Live Oaks and Monterrey Oaks especially do well in rocky or well-draining soils.
