Providing shade, wildlife habitat and aesthetics; trees are an important part of any landscape. Having a basic knowledge of tree selection, planting and care are important to keep your trees healthy and vigorous. Generally, the winter months in Florida are a great time to plant a tree, though really any time of year works too!
Trees should be chosen carefully to avoid having specimens that will one day be too large for their chosen location. Often trees are planted too close to homes or under obstacles like powerlines. Knowing beforehand how large your tree will eventually become is an important part of the selection process. Native trees are a good choice requiring minimal upkeep and disease problems, while providing habitat for wildlife.
Proper planting will help insure a healthy tree down the road. A good rule of thumb is to dig a hole twice the diameter of the pot or root ball. Planting too deep is also a common mistake, which can easily lead to decline. Try to leave a half inch of root ball above the level of the undisturbed soil surface. A ring of excess soil surrounding the planted root ball in the form of a berm helps to keep water from running off.
When planting, fill the hole around the root ball half full of soil. Add water to the top of the hole until the water disappears. Repeat layers of soil and water, until the hole is filled. This will help prevent air pockets around roots which can keep trees from growing. Trees may be staked, if necessary, preferably using products made for this purpose. Please, do not tie string or rope tightly around the trunk or branches! If mulching, try to keep mulch away from the trunk. Water frequently for the first month or two, then as needed.
Established trees normally need little water or care. Dead wood can be pruned but practices such as ‘hat racking’ (the removal of a large part of the tree canopy, commonly seen with crepe myrtles) should be avoided at all costs. Hard pruning can weaken a tree and cause decline or disease. If you ever need additional help, your local extension office and nursery are good resources for information.