Planting a tree is a hopeful act. Whether you’re envisioning fragrant spring flowers, cooling summer shade, or brilliant fall color, planting a tree today means investing in beauty for years to come.

At Sunnyside, we’ve helped generations of gardeners plant with confidence. Here’s our tried-and-true planting technique—told by our expert, Sue—and perfect for most container-grown trees, including ornamental trees like crabapples.

And because planting a tree is equal parts science and poetry, we’ve included a favorite sweet poem by Sarah that celebrates the spirit of it all.

Step-by-Step: How to Plant a Tree

1. Pick the Right Tree for the Right Spot

Every tree thrives in specific conditions. Some need full sun, others prefer partial shade. Some need space to spread out; others are compact and tidy.

• Tip: Check the tag or ask us in-store to match your tree’s needs with your landscape.

2. Dig a Thoughtful Hole

Start by digging a hole twice as wide as your tree’s container or root ball, and 1.5 times as deep. Then backfill the bottom slightly so the root ball sits about 2 inches above the surrounding ground when planted.

• This helps with drainage and prevents the tree from settling too low.

3. Amend the Soil

Mix your native soil with compost or planting soil to add nutrients and improve texture. Sue recommends mixing in Bio-Tone Starter Fertilizer—it contains beneficial mycorrhizae that help roots grow strong and healthy from the start.

4. Place Your Tree

Carefully remove your tree from its container and loosen circling roots if you see them. Place the tree in the center of the hole with the root flare (where the trunk meets the roots) slightly above ground level.

Backfill with your soil mix, lightly tamping as you go. Don’t compact the soil—let the water settle things naturally.

5. Water Thoroughly

Soak the tree deeply after planting to eliminate air pockets and help roots settle.

Watering Schedule:

• First 2 months: Water twice a week, deeply
• After that: Water weekly during dry spells or heatwaves

6. Mulch and Protect

• In late fall (around Halloween), wrap the trunk from base to first branches to protect from mice, rabbits, and sunscald.
• Unwrap in spring (around Easter) to let the bark breathe.

Final Touches

Most trees don’t need to be staked unless they’re in a very windy location. Skip additional fertilizer until the second growing season to allow the tree to establish.

Thinking of a Crabapple?

Crabapples are a favorite here—loved for their spring flowers, bird-friendly fruit, and year-round charm. We carry oval, weeping, and compact lollipop varieties perfect for small yards or statement plantings.

A Poem for Your Planting Day

Oh happy trees that we plant today,
What great good fortunes wait you!
For you will grow in sun and snow
Till fruit and flowers freight you.

Your winter covering of snow
Will dazzle with its splendor;
Your summer’s garb with richest flow,
Will feast of beauty render.

In your cool shade will tired feet
Pause, weary, when ’tis summer;
And rest like this will be most sweet
To every tired comer.

— Sarah Davis

Ready to Plant?

Visit Sunnyside Gardens to explore our fresh tree inventory and chat with our planting experts. Whether you’re planting one tree or starting a whole backyard grove, we’re here to help your roots take hold.

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