Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting a Tree

JOLIET, Ill., April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Trees help clean the air, provide shade and make yards more attractive and comfortable. While it may seem like a simple task to dig a hole and drop in a tree, there's quite a bit to consider before picking up that shovel.

"Whether planting a sapling or full-grown tree, the process takes time and preparation to avoid mistakes," said Kevin Chmura, director of public relations at JULIE, Inc.

Four Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting a Tree

1. Poor location choice.

Planting a tree where it looks the best, provides the most shade or is too close to your home could be a costly mistake. You need to take into consideration the growth habits of the tree. Not only could you damage an underground utility line when you plant it, but as your tree matures its roots may grow into your utility lines and disrupt your service. Roots often grow outward to a diameter one to two times the height of the tree.

2. Dig a hole that's too deep or too narrow.

Digging the hole where your tree will live is an important step to ensure its survival. If the hole is too deep, the roots don't have access to sufficient oxygen and therefore won't grow properly. A hole that is dug too narrow doesn't allow the root structure to expand and properly anchor the tree.

3. Disregard soil conditions and drainage.

Soil texture and drainage should be checked before planting. Poor drainage can result in stagnate water pooling around the roots which can lead to "root rot" caused by lack of available oxygen.

4. Forget to notify JULIE.

Digging without contacting JULIE first can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood, harm you and those around you and result in repair costs. So before you dig, go to www.illinois1call.com to fill out your location information or call 8-1-1 and help avoid costly mistakes. This is a free service.  Once professional locators from member utility companies have come out and marked where the utility lines are and you've waited two business days, you're ready to start your project.

JULIE, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization that covers the state of Illinois (outside the city of Chicago).  For additional tips, visit www.illinois1call.com.

SOURCE JULIE, Inc.