Top Things to Know About Planting Oak Trees

Oak trees grow to be big beautiful shade trees. If properly planted and cared for, oak trees can live over a hundred years. There is nothing like seeing a mighty majestic oak that is over 100 years old with its thick strong branches. There are a few things you should know before planting your oak tree to ensure it grows big and strong.

Digging the Hole

It is very important to dig the correct size hole to accommodate your oak tree. Your hole should be:

• The depth of the hole should be slightly shallower than the pot the or the tree ball.


• The width of the hole should be three times the size of the root ball or the pot.

Planting the Oak Tree

Once you have dug the correct size hole:

• Remove the tree from the pot or break the root ball.


• Place the tree in the middle of the hole.


• Backfill the dirt into the hole.


• Loosely pack the soil.


• Leave a mound around the base of the tree.

Watering the Newly Planted Oak Tree

You must give your tree slow deep watering on a regular basis for the first year. Surface watering will not reach the root ball and will not promote root growth. The best items to purchase for slow soaking are:

• Soaker ball


• Soaker hose


• Install a drip irrigation system.

Retaining the Moisture Around Your Oak

It is important to keep the area around your tree free from weeds and grass. Competition for water is not good for your newly planted oak. Mulch is a great way to keep those pesky weeds and intruding grass away and keeping the ground beneath your tree from drying out. Use:

• Wood chips


• Alphalfa hay