Location, location, location!
Plant your tree at least 20 feet from other trees. Don’t plant near above- or below-ground utilities.
Dig!
Dig a small hole about 6 inches wide and no deeper than the depth of the root ball. Keep the top of the root ball even with the ground and make sure the tree is placed on firm soil to prevent sinking. Keep the root collar clear of soil and mulch to prevent disease and root rot.
Backfill!
Fill the hole with the original soil and no additives. For additional nutrients, add compost on top of the ground before you mulch. Use your hand to firm the soil until the hole is filled. Leftover soil should be placed in a ring that is about 1 foot from the tree.
Mulch!
Build a 4” tall mulch ring around the tree keeping the mulch at least 2 inches from the trunk. Mulch keeps the soil moist, adds nutrients, and improves soil structure.
Water!
Saplings need ~ 1/2 gallon of water, three times a week. Leave a hose on trickle for about 1 minute three times a week. Water year round for two years.
No Stakes!
Saplings don’t need stakes or ties to grow straight. Young trees grow stronger when they are able to sway with the wind.
DIAL BEFORE YOU DIG
Call 1-800-344-8377 at least 72 hours prior to planting your tree to allow time for the utilities to be marked. Plant the tree at least 5 feet away from underground utilities, sidewalks or driveways.
Why Plant Trees in this Drought?
Central Texas is facing the most severe drought since 1895 and the hottest year ever! Saplings Days trees are native trees chosen for their drought and heat tolerance. The 1 1/2 gallons a week it takes to water these trees can be captured by intercepting a bit of shower water or veggie washing water. These trees will provide a net gain for the water cycle, helping to recharge groundwater when it rains, and slow and clean runoff. Their shade will help avoid energy consumption, thereby reducing the amount of water needed for energy production.