Tree & Shrub Planting
Two river birch trees (Betula nigra) we planted last summer
New Leaf offers a variety of planting options, from small bare-root plants, to large balled and burlapped material. We work with local nurseries to source quality stock, ensuring plants are adapted well to our local climate.
We plant all our trees according to currently accepted planting standards as outlined in Principles and Practice of Planting Trees & Shrubs (1997, International Society of Arboriculture), and we take great care to ensure your transplanted trees are installed properly.
Here are some details to consider when planting trees and shrubs:
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Budget
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Reason for planting
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Desired initial and mature tree size
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Available space
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Desired species
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Quality of soil
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Water drainage
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Sun exposure
When we plant, we carefully follow these guidelines to ensure proper installation:
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Carefully inspect new trees and shrubs for defects.
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The planting hole must be a minimum of 3 times the diameter of the root ball, depending on soil conditions.
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The root flair must be slightly above grade.
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Soil must be loosely backfilled to avoid compaction.
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Water, water, water.
All of our planting installations include the addition of essential soil amendments that assist new trees and plants in establishment and long term growth. These amendments include mycorrhizal fungi, beneficial bacteria, biochar, and compost.
We require an in-person appointment for all potential planting projects.
Bare-Root Plants
When bare-root trees are this size when planted, we can plant them in much larger quantities, and in a way that benefits long-term growth. As these trees grow, structural pruning can be performed to encourage solid branch connections, desired shape, and a strong central leader. For large upkeep areas that are hard to manage, this type of planting can provide a way to transition back toward increased forestation of the land.
Benefits of planting bare-root:
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Trees that are planted bare-root are typically much less expensive than container-grown or balled and burlapped trees.
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The roots of a bare-root tree have developed in their natural manner without the restricting influence of container walls.
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Because there is no soil included with the root mass, and because the trees are transplanted while dormant, much more of the root system is able to be moved, and less transplant shock is experienced
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Bare-root trees are frequently more successful in the long term, as their roots are able to develop and acclimate to the soil from a younger age.
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Because bare-root trees have more root mass, and because they acclimate to the soil sooner, they typically grow much more in their first few seasons than container-grown trees.
We are huge proponents of bare-root planting, especially when installing new trees in volume. We would love to discuss your bare-root planting project with you!
“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” - Nelson Henderson
Caleb and his team were wonderful. They treated the property with respect, were completely on time and budget, and left everything in fantastic shape. I'll be happy to recommend New Leaf to anyone, and rest assured they will have my business forever!