The first few years after planting are the most important for helping a newly planted tree root, thrive, and grow. Here are some tips to help care for the tree in its early years:
Stakes
Stakes helps a tree grow properly for its first few years and should not be removed until after two years — at which point, it should be healthy and stable. If the tree has a significant lean, submit a 311 request to have a professional inspect the tree’s health.
Mulching
Mulching around trees helps fertilize the soil, insulate the roots, retain moisture, and slow weed and grass growth. For best results, mulch in the spring or fall and follow the 3-3-3 rule: 3 feet around the tree, 3 inches deep, and 3 inches from the base of the trunk.
Remember to create space between the base of the tree’s trunk and the mulch — no mulch volcanoes, please! If you don’t want to use mulch, you can also use fallen leaves from other trees.
Watering
Watering is the single most important thing that can be done for a young tree! Trees typically need an inch of rain per week during their early lives, which is about 20 gallons of water. For best results, give your tree a minimum of five gallons of water per week for the first six months. If you have time to go up to 20 gallons per week, even better.
If you’re using gallon jugs, a 5-gallon bucket, or a hose, concentrate water at the base of the tree. If you’re using a gator bag, plan on filling it every 5-7 days. Be sure to water in the mornings or evenings, when it tends to be cooler and less likely for water to evaporate.
Also, be sure to check Drought.gov or DroughtMonitor.UNL.edu for information on drought conditions in your area.
Common Problems to Look Out For
Whenever you examine your tree, look closely at the leaves, canopy, trunk, branches, roots, and soil. Do you see anything out of the ordinary? Here are a few symptoms and signs to look for each time you inspect your tree.
Dying branches
If your tree has dying branches, your tree might need water, has been overwatered, has an infection, or is experiencing stress. While trees sometimes do need to be pruned, it is best to defer to a trained arborist or TreeKeeper who can identify the root issue and the best course of action.
Brown leaves
If your tree is displaying brown leaves out of season, your tree might need water, has been overwatered, has an infection, or is experiencing stress.
Curled leaves
If your tree is displaying curled leaves, aphids may be feeding on the tree’s sap.
Deer browse
Deer often rub their antlers on tree trunks — but for a young tree, it can destroy the tree’s protective bark. Deer guards can help.
If you have any questions or concerns about your tree, please submit a maintenance request so Baltimore Tree Trust can support you.
More Resources
Interested in taking a more active role in caring for trees? Baltimore Tree Trust is always looking for volunteers! You can also explore becoming a Tree Keeper with Tree Baltimore, which is a free, city-wide tree stewardship program open to all residents interested in helping Baltimore’s trees.
You can also visit tree care guides from University of Maryland, Arbor Day Foundation, and True Timber Arborists.
Have more questions? Please don’t hesitate to reach out by emailing us or giving us a call at (410) 861-0784!