KATHY’S HOME & GARDENING – FALL TREE PLANTING
Fall is here and a great time to plant trees. The tree will have time to establish before the ground freezes and will have a good start when spring arrives. Many garden centers will discount trees at this time of year to clear out their stock before the winter.
When purchasing a tree, there are several indicators for a good tree purchase versus a questionable one.
First check the trees appearance. Look to see if the trunk has a straight, strong, well-defined leader. The "leader" is the very top of the trunk. Trees with multiple leaders that cross, rub, or are crowded together haven't been properly pruned at the nursery. Stay away from them.
Second look for good root flare. The flare is the spreading base of the trunk that connects with the roots. If you don't see a root flare the tree was probably planted too deeply. Avoid these.
Third inspect the root system. The root system should be big enough to support the tree. For every inch of trunk diameter there should be 12-16 inches of root ball. The trunk should not wobble freely of the soil ball.
Fourth check the roots. Roots should be white, pink, or light tan. Roots that are black or dark brown are damaged or already dead. The roots should not tightly circle the ball, these can choke the tree and not spread out for healthy growth.
Fifth look at the trunk for blemishes or wounds. Trunks with wounds have been improperly handled. Make sure nursery stakes have not scarred the tree or its' branches.
Finally, look for insect or disease damage. Speckled foliage may indicate pests that suck plant juices such as spider mites or aphids. Holes in the trunk are signs of borer damage.
Plant according to directions provided with the tree. Most important are digging a big enough hole and water deeply and well till the ground freezes.
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
