Planting

Plant only when air temperatures are above freezing. Stock shall not be planted when the soil is frozen or dry.

Trees and shrubs may be planted by hand or with a planting machine.

Do not plant on hot, windy days to avoid excessive drying. When the weather is cool, the humidity is high and the winds are light is the time to plant trees. The seedling roots should not be exposed to the air for more than 30 seconds. In mixed plantings of conifer and deciduous seedlings, plant bare root conifers first for they are more susceptible to their roots drying out.

Roots of bareroot stock shall be kept moist during planting operations by placing in water-soil (mud) slurry, peat moss, super-absorbent (e.g., polyacrylamide) slurry or other equivalent material. Rooting medium of container or potted stock shall be kept moist at all times by periodic watering..

Rooted stock will be planted in a vertical position with the root collars approximately one-half inch below the soil surface. The planting hole or trench must be deep and wide enough to avoid bending and compacting roots. After planting of rooted stock, pack soil around each plant firmly to eliminate air pockets (See Figure 2).

Figure 2. Proper Plant and Root Placement of Rooted Stock Using a Planting Bar.

Insert planting bar into soil and press top to one side to create wedge-shaped planting hole. Remove bar and put tree into hole. Insert planting bar vertically at outer edge of hole. Press top of bar toward tree to move displaced soil back around tree roots. Tamp loosened soil down with foot, beginning away from tree and working toward it.

Random scattered plantings in areas lacking woody vegetation throughout the riparian site would look more natural and are encouraged.

Avoid sites that have had recent application of pesticides harmful to woody species to be planted. If pesticides are used, apply only when needed. Handle and dispose of pesticides properly and within federal, state, and local regulations. Follow label directions and heed all precautions listed on the container.

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Last Modified: 08/08/2007