Western Pennsylvania Conservancy Daily e-Calendar

November 18, 2003 Green Thumb Tuesday

Green Thumb Tuesday: Fall Tree Planting and Pruning Tips

Fall is a great time to plant new trees and prune your existing trees. Here are some helpful tips for tree planting:

Select high-quality trees for planting (no loose root balls)
Plant the right tree in the right place. DO NOT plant tall-maturing trees near buildings or under utility lines.
Prepare a planting site, not just a hole in the ground. DO NOT plant too deep.
Brace trees, but not so tightly that they cannot sway. Remove bracing after one year.
Mulch with composted leaves or shredded bark a few inches away from the tree trunk and three to four inches deep.

Helpful tips for tree pruning:

Never prune from a ladder.
Never prune near electric utility lines.
Make small cuts as close as possible to the collar (The collar is where the branch meets the trunk of the tree).
Do not top trees – It's a waste of money and a misdeed to a tree's natural growth habit.
When in doubt, call a professional arborist.

Today's photo was taken at the Barn at Fallingwater last Friday, November 14th, when various deciduous trees were being planted. Photo was taken by WPC's Director of Community Conservation Stewardship Mark Wallace. Information for all Green Thumb Tuesdays is provided by WPC's Community Conservation Department.

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