PLANTS FAQ
Q: How are trees sold?
A: Trees are sold based on either their container size or their caliper(width) depending on the way the tree is sold (B&B, container, fiber pots, etc). Containerized trees are measured using the gallon size of the container. The higher the gallon size, the larger the tree. Trees are required to be measured according to strict guidelines that are regulated by the American Association of Nurserymen. All trees under 4" must be measured 6" off the ground using a caliper. All trees above 4" must be measured 1' off the ground using a caliper.
Q: How should I water my new tree?
A: Proper watering is the most important thing that you can do for your new tree. You must make sure that you get adequate water to the full root ball, but also to not oversaturate the root ball which can lead to root rot, stunted growth, and eventually can lead to death. On average, trees require about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season. This can be accomplished by placing the hose at the base of the tree and allowing for a pencil's width of water to come out for about an hour or whatever time it takes to wet the root ball. A tree will always appreciate a deep thorough soaking a couple of times a week over a lot of light applications of water. Trees less than 5 years old need water every 7-10 days during stressful periods during the year. Applying mulch around the base of the tree helps the tree conserve moisture.
Q: How high/low should I plant my new plant?
A: The best way for you to install your new plant is to find the root flare on the plant. The root flare is found by following the stem down toward the roots and finding where the stem begins to spread out into the root system. This can be done on all types of plants. When putting your plant into your newly dug hole, try to have the root flare either even with the existing soil surface, or raised just a little. Having the shrub planted too deep can kill the plant by drowning it and by planting too high, you can cause the shrub to not find or maintain enough moisture to survive. On all trees, you must realize that a 10' tree is a 10' tree. You can't buy a 10' tree and think that if you bury it 2' deeper in the hole, you can have an 8' tree. Know the size of tree that you want and the site conditions that you are restricted by to help you decide which size of tree you should use.
More plant questions will be added later. If you have any immediate questions, feel free to call us at (419) 586-1290 or email us at mikedues@duesnursery.com. Thank you!
