Proper Planting Trees

Hello Gardeners, I’m Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making It Grow. The University of Florida Extension factsheet on trees and hurricanes speaks to the issue of properly planting a tree to improve its survivability. We Clemson people say not to amend the planting hole for several reasons -- one being that it can discourage the tree from sending roots into the less hospitable native soil. The Florida publication states that heavy amending may even encourage the roots to circle like they do if left too long in a container. If you have to add organic material, keep it to a minimum and prepare to spend several years watering and mulching until the tree is well established. If you have a very highwater table or poorly drained soil, bald cypress or black gum, both of which perform well in those conditions, and have good records of surviving hurricanes, would be good choices and provide fall color to boot.