An important element of planting 
is setting the tree properly in the soil. 
F-51093 
Care and thoroughness 
mark the professional 
tree-planter. 
Fertile topsoil around the ball of roots 
aids early growth and survival. 
to a height of 75 to 100 feet or more should be placed at least 40 feet 
apart. Medium sized species that grow to a height of 50 to 75 feet 
can be spaced 30 to 40 feet apart. Smaller trees should be spaced at 
intervals of 20 to 30 feet. Most shrubs and understory (below tree 
height) species do best when planted at a spacing of 5 to 15 feet 
depending upon their size and shape when mature. It is usually 
advisable to interplant shrubs with the trees. Select shrubs and 
understory species that are compatible with the tree species. If a 
grouping, clump, or screen appearance is desired, the spacing must 
be adjusted to obtain the desired effect. 
Pruning Before Planting 
Usually the nurseryman will do all the pruning necessary before 
delivering the planting stock. Damaged roots or branches should 
be pruned with a sharp knife, saw, or pruning shears. Always prune 
some of the branches at a time when part of the root system is re- 
moved. This will compensate for loss of roots and increase the 
prospects of survival and early growth. Here again the aid of pro- 
fessional or practical experience should be sought. 
Planting Techniques 
Success in transplanting trees and shrubs depends largely on the 
soil preparation and the planting techniques used. Dig a hole twice 
the size of the ball of earth holding the roots, or of the root system 
on bare-rooted stock. Separate the topsoil from the subsoil when 
digging the hole. Be sure the soil around the hole is loosened. 
Ordinarily it is advisable to set the plant at the depth it grew in the 
nursery Or not more than 2 inches deeper. Do not remove the 
burlap, but you may cut the string holding it. First, use the topsoil 
to fill the space around the roots, then compact it to eliminate air 
pockets. If necessary fill the top part of the hole with the subsoil. 
With the topsoil in the bottom of the hole, the roots will come in con- 
tact with this fertile soil and begin growth quickly. For seedling 
stock it is not usually necessary to dig a hole. The roots can be 
placed in a slit and the soil firmed around them. 
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