Planting large trees and bushes: for an immediate impact

What types of packaging are available for large trees and bushes?

In containers:

Many trees and bushes are available in pots ranging from 10 to 50 litres and more. This packaging is the most common and allows for planting throughout the year. Additionally, plants can be kept in containers for longer than in bare roots or clumps. However, if the plant remains in the pot for too long, the roots eventually run out of space. They become tangled and form a knot. This complicates the plant’s rooting in the ground. When purchasing, check the condition of the plant’s root system.

Trees conditioned in pots

In bare roots:

Due to the absence of soil around the roots, this packaging has the advantage of being lighter and easier to transport. Another significant positive point is the very attractive price of these plants. The downside is that the roots are fragile: they must not be exposed to air and sunlight, or they risk drying out. It is necessary to plant the tree or bush (or place it in temporary storage) as quickly as possible. Additionally, there are some specific techniques to know for planting.

In clumps:

Trees and bushes in clumps develop in the ground, in nurseries, over several years during which they have been dug up and replanted multiple times (4 to 10 times depending on the desired size). The extraction (or cercing) of these plants is done using a machine that cuts a large clump of soil. The roots are partially cut at this time, which promotes branching and multiplication of the root system. It takes about 6 years to create a well-formed root hair system. When the tree is extracted for sale, the roots wrapped in the clump of soil are protected by a jute/cotton mesh or straw, all surrounded by natural material fencing for added strength. This decomposes in 1.5 to 2 years. Although this packaging is more expensive and transport is more complicated (weight of the clump), it allows for obtaining high-quality plants with very good chances of survival.

When to plant a large tree or bush?

Be aware that the planting period varies depending on the type of packaging and the type of plant.

• Deciduous trees and bushes, often supplied bare root, should be planted during their dormant period, from autumn to the end of winter, from October to March, when the soil is not frozen or waterlogged.
• Evergreen trees and bushes, conifers, and very large specimens are generally supplied in clumps. They can be planted from September to early November or from late March to late April.
• Finally, the vast majority of medium-sized trees and bushes are available in containers. Planting can be carried out all year round, except during periods of frost and extreme heat.

How to plant a large tree or bush?

Planting a large tree or bush should not be taken lightly. It requires prior preparation and logistical planning. Here are our tips:

Preparing the Ground

Before digging your planting hole, check the planting distances to observe based on the size of your tree or bush.

Dig your planting hole about 1 month before the planting day and during dry weather. This period allows the soil to aerate, facilitating drainage. Your planting hole should be wider than it is deep: twice the width and one and a half times the depth of the root ball. To respect the different layers of soil, make a first pile with the soil extracted from 25-30 cm deep. This is the rich and fertile topsoil. Then, make a second pile with the soil extracted beyond 30 cm deep. This soil is of lesser quality. To remember the order of extraction of the two piles until the planting day, mark your two piles, for example by placing a large stone on the first pile and two large stones on the second pile. Loosen the bottom of the hole. Add well-decomposed compost or manure mixed with the soil. As a precaution, you can add a layer of soil (10 cm) to prevent root burn for your future tree or bush. Indeed, direct contact with poorly decomposed amendments can damage the roots.

Logistical Considerations

When purchasing your tree or bush, ensure you have suitable transport (trailer, van, etc.) to collect a very large specimen or opt for delivery. Additionally, for a very large specimen or one in a root ball, a lifting device (such as a mini-digger) is essential for moving the tree or bush. Also, consider the manpower. Seek help from family or friends. Depending on the size of your tree or bush, one or more people will be useful for these planting tasks (for holding the stake during planting, for example).

Root ball bushes weigh heavier than bare root bushes

Preparing the Plants

Be aware that certain specifics must be respected according to the packaging methods:

• Bare root: carry out a dressing and pralinage of the roots.
• In container: gently untangle the roots to avoid root binding, and moisten the root ball by soaking it in a large container filled with water.
• In root ball: water the root ball to moisten it.
• Dressing the crown of the tree is also necessary before planting. This involves pruning the branches to facilitate the tree’s recovery and shape its future silhouette.

Planting

• Set up staking or guying before planting the tree. The stake should provide support against prevailing winds and will remain in place for 2 years.
• Place your tree or bush so that the collar is slightly above soil level. For root ball specimens, cut the part of the mesh around the collar, pulling it back about fifteen centimetres from the collar. Be careful not to remove the mesh (unless it is plastic), as it holds the root ball together. For bare roots, place them in the hole flat without folding or breaking them.
• Check that your tree and bush are upright.
• Backfill the hole in the following order: first the second pile of soil (with the 2 large stones), then the topsoil (the pile with 1 large stone).
• Attach the tree to the stake.
• Firmly compact the soil with your feet.
• Form a watering basin around the tree with the remaining soil. Water generously.
• Finally, add a layer of mulch about ten centimetres thick at the base of your freshly planted tree or bush.

Maintenance after planting

• Be aware that it is preferable to water generously in one go, rather than a small amount every day. During the two weeks following planting, water your tree/bush three times a week. After that, water it once a week. Continue watering until it freezes. Stop during winter. As spring arrives, resume watering and increase water supplies during dry periods. Regularly check the soil moisture at a depth of 15 cm. There is no absolute rule for the amounts of water to provide; it varies between 30 and 300 litres per watering, depending on the size and type of the plant, as well as climatic conditions. Over the first three years, as the roots extend, widen the watering area around the tree.
• Reform the watering basin if necessary.
• Remove any weeds that appear on the mulch and replenish the mulch.
• Periodically check the health of your plant.
• Check the ties of the staked tree. If they compress the trunk, loosen them. After two years of planting, remember to remove the stake from the tree.

Well-formed watering basin

For further reading

• Check the sheet for how to plant trees and bushes in bare roots
• Discover what you need to know about root dressing and coating the roots of trees and bushes with pralin
• Find Olivier’s tips on transplanting trees, bushes, roses, and perennials: when and how?
• All of Marion’s advice for staking a fruit tree
• Learn more about Hedges, bushes, trees: What are the planting distances?