Bare Root Planting Instructions
 

• Bare root stock should be planted immediately upon receipt.  If you are unable to plant right away, keep your trees in a cool place, out of direct sunlight, and they will be fine for a day or two.
   
• Before you select the location for planting your tree, check its description: i.e. height and spread, for the ultimate mature size, this information is on your order form and on www.mississippimills.com/order-trees.
   
• Locate your tree away from utilities, septic systems and buildings.
   
• Dig a hole 30 to 36 inches in diameter by 18 to 24 inches deep.  Smaller root systems could have smaller holes.
   
• Mix the bag of compost (supplied) with the excavated material.  Sprinkle the bone meal on the pile and thoroughly mix in.
   
• Before planting check for and cut off broken twigs.  Do not cut or remove the central leader.
   
• Remove the plastic bag and trim off broken or damaged roots.
   
• Place the tree in the hole to check that there is sufficient space for the roots.  
   
• Ultimately, the root system should rest at the same height as when it was growing at the nursery.
   
• Remember the tree will drop by a couple of inches when the earth compacts and sinks around the roots, so allow for this by planting the tree 2-3 inches higher.
   
• Spread the roots so that the main ones radiate away from the base of your tree.
   
• Anchor the tree by placing several shovelfuls of the soil mixture around the roots, filling the hole about half full.
   
• Run approximately 5 gallons (20 litres) of water into the hole (1½ - 2 minutes with a ½ inch garden hose).
   
• Jiggle the tree up and down to remove any air pockets.  This action settles the soil around the roots.
   
• Check that the trunk of the tree is as vertical as possible.
   
• Add more soil and tamp with your foot.
   
• Check the nursery soil mark on the tree trunk. It should be 2 inches above the level of the soil around the tree, after planting.
   
• Build a water ring 30 inch in diameter by 3 inches high.  The ring prevents water from running away during weekly watering.  This step is very important.

  

• The ring can be removed by the next growing season.
   
• Spread about 2 inches of mulch (one plus bag supplied) over the area covering the water ring.
   
• Keep the mulch two inches away from the tree trunk.  Wet mulch can cause disease if it is in contact with the trunk.
   
• Run a garden hose for about 5 minutes to soak the roots.  You are finished.  Congratulations!
   
• During the first season water your tree 5-6 minutes once a week or until the soil is saturated - this is very important in establishing a healthy tree.  Water even if it rains;  however, do not over-water.

Kindly note, additional compost may be purchased
at 38 Carss Street (Al Potivin’s) for 1 loonie per bag
(all proceeds going to the Almonte Hospital Foundation).