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A Landscaper’s Guide: How to Plant and Transplant Trees this Fall in Atlanta Georgia

Fall is the perfect time to plant or transplant trees in Atlanta, Georgia. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall create ideal conditions for trees to establish themselves.

However, it's important to choose the right location, prepare the planting site correctly, and provide proper care for your trees to ensure it thrives. 

Follow our expert tips to successfully plant or transplant trees in Atlanta this fall!
1. Choose the Right Location

When it comes to planting and relocating trees, nailing the perfect spot is the cornerstone of success. To ensure your tree thrives, it's vital to consider a few key factors: the soil type, how well the area drains, the amount of sunlight it receives, and its resilience to the elements. 

Think of it like this: you wouldn't want to place a water-loving Birch tree in parched, dry soil, it’s essential to match your tree’s preferences with its surroundings.

Moreover, bear in mind that as your tree matures, it will crave space to spread its roots and branches. Ensure that your chosen spot is hazard-free, steering clear of buildings and utility lines. 

And don't overlook the critical aspect of watering. If your tree relies on a hose or irrigation system, make sure it's a practical and sustainable setup, ensuring you can consistently provide the hydration it needs to thrive.
2. Prepare Your Planting Site 

Once your location has been picked, here’s how you will prepare the site:

Inspect Your Tree: Regardless of whether your tree is balled and burlap, bare root, or containerized, inspect the root ball for any girdling roots. Carefully remove these roots using sanitized pruning shears to prevent damage to the tree.

Dig the Right Hole: After addressing any root issues, dig a hole roughly twice the width of the rootball, avoiding excessive depth. Trees prefer spreading their roots horizontally, offering them room to flourish.

Check the Fit: Once the hole is prepared, place your tree carefully within it. As you backfill with soil, pay close attention to the tree's positioning. Ensure it isn't buried too deeply; if so, add soil to bring it to the correct level. This minor adjustment significantly influences your tree's adaptation to its new home.

Add Mulch: After securing your tree in the right spot, add a layer of two to three inches of mulch or woodchips around its base. However, avoid packing mulch against the root flare, known as "volcano mulching," which can create a damp environment attracting pests and fungus. Proper mulching retains soil moisture and moderates temperature.

3. Water it Well 

Once your tree is in the ground, it's crucial to provide it with proper hydration, especially since newly planted or transplanted trees face considerable stress due to their changing environment. 

Rather than adhering to a strict watering schedule, it's wise to adapt your watering routine based on weather conditions. Here are some key considerations:

Measure Water Needs: Gauge your tree's water needs by providing 2 to 3 gallons of water for each inch of its trunk diameter. For example, a tree with a 3-inch trunk would require 6 to 9 gallons of water.

Check Soil Moisture: To determine if your tree needs additional water, simply press your finger into the soil at a depth of 4 to 6 inches. If the soil feels moist, there's no need to water; if it's dry, it's time to provide hydration.

Yearly Care: During the first year, while the tree's leaves are present, aim to water your new tree once a week. This consistent care helps your tree establish itself and adapt to its new surroundings.
Plant Native Trees for Atlanta Landscapes
 
So, are you ready to get planting? If you're seeking inspiration for your next landscaping project, why not explore the native trees in the Atlanta, Georgia area available at MNI Direct?

  • River Birch (Betula nigra): A moisture-loving tree characterized by its flaky bark, the River Birch stands out as a low-maintenance, fast-growing midstory native, reaching heights of 40-70 feet.

  • Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis): As a native understory tree, the Eastern Redbud grows to heights of up to 25 feet. Its iconic heart-shaped leaves are known for transitioning through a spectrum of colors, from pinks and deep reds to vibrant oranges and yellows.

  • American Beech (Fagus grandifolia): This native overstory tree boasts versatility, thriving in full sun to partial shade conditions. It finds its best footing in moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil, offering striking fall foliage.

  • Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica): Another excellent choice for captivating fall colors, the Blackgum stands tall as an overstory tree and excels as an urban shade provider.

  • Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea): Most renowned for its brilliant fall foliage, the Scarlet Oak leaves a lasting impression with its glossy leaves.
MNI Direct: Your Partner in Plant Materials 
Since 2007, our team has been dedicated to providing the professional landscape trade with quality plant material and hardlines needed for success. 

We are dedicated to being a one-stop source for contractor planting needs, offering a vast array of options, and delivering the very best in customer service. As fall unfolds, MNI Direct remains committed to supporting your tree planting and landscaping endeavors across Atlanta, Georgia, Piedmont, South Carolina, and Rock Hill, South Carolina.

With our wealth of expertise and an extensive selection of trees tailored for this region, we don't just supply materials; we're your allies in creating vibrant, sustainable landscapes. 

Contact us today and become a member of our contractor community! 

A Landscaper’s Guide: How to Plant and Transplant Trees this Fall in Atlanta Georgia

Fall is the perfect time to plant or transplant trees in Atlanta, Georgia. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall create ideal conditions for trees to establish themselves.

However, it's important to choose the right location, prepare the planting site correctly, and provide proper care for your trees to ensure it thrives. 

Follow our expert tips to successfully plant or transplant trees in Atlanta this fall!
1. Choose the Right Location

When it comes to planting and relocating trees, nailing the perfect spot is the cornerstone of success. To ensure your tree thrives, it's vital to consider a few key factors: the soil type, how well the area drains, the amount of sunlight it receives, and its resilience to the elements. 

Think of it like this: you wouldn't want to place a water-loving Birch tree in parched, dry soil, it’s essential to match your tree’s preferences with its surroundings.

Moreover, bear in mind that as your tree matures, it will crave space to spread its roots and branches. Ensure that your chosen spot is hazard-free, steering clear of buildings and utility lines. 

And don't overlook the critical aspect of watering. If your tree relies on a hose or irrigation system, make sure it's a practical and sustainable setup, ensuring you can consistently provide the hydration it needs to thrive.
2. Prepare Your Planting Site 

Once your location has been picked, here’s how you will prepare the site:

Inspect Your Tree: Regardless of whether your tree is balled and burlap, bare root, or containerized, inspect the root ball for any girdling roots. Carefully remove these roots using sanitized pruning shears to prevent damage to the tree.

Dig the Right Hole: After addressing any root issues, dig a hole roughly twice the width of the rootball, avoiding excessive depth. Trees prefer spreading their roots horizontally, offering them room to flourish.

Check the Fit: Once the hole is prepared, place your tree carefully within it. As you backfill with soil, pay close attention to the tree's positioning. Ensure it isn't buried too deeply; if so, add soil to bring it to the correct level. This minor adjustment significantly influences your tree's adaptation to its new home.

Add Mulch: After securing your tree in the right spot, add a layer of two to three inches of mulch or woodchips around its base. However, avoid packing mulch against the root flare, known as "volcano mulching," which can create a damp environment attracting pests and fungus. Proper mulching retains soil moisture and moderates temperature.

3. Water it Well 

Once your tree is in the ground, it's crucial to provide it with proper hydration, especially since newly planted or transplanted trees face considerable stress due to their changing environment. 

Rather than adhering to a strict watering schedule, it's wise to adapt your watering routine based on weather conditions. Here are some key considerations:

Measure Water Needs: Gauge your tree's water needs by providing 2 to 3 gallons of water for each inch of its trunk diameter. For example, a tree with a 3-inch trunk would require 6 to 9 gallons of water.

Check Soil Moisture: To determine if your tree needs additional water, simply press your finger into the soil at a depth of 4 to 6 inches. If the soil feels moist, there's no need to water; if it's dry, it's time to provide hydration.

Yearly Care: During the first year, while the tree's leaves are present, aim to water your new tree once a week. This consistent care helps your tree establish itself and adapt to its new surroundings.
Plant Native Trees for Atlanta Landscapes
 
So, are you ready to get planting? If you're seeking inspiration for your next landscaping project, why not explore the native trees in the Atlanta, Georgia area available at MNI Direct?

  • River Birch (Betula nigra): A moisture-loving tree characterized by its flaky bark, the River Birch stands out as a low-maintenance, fast-growing midstory native, reaching heights of 40-70 feet.

  • Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis): As a native understory tree, the Eastern Redbud grows to heights of up to 25 feet. Its iconic heart-shaped leaves are known for transitioning through a spectrum of colors, from pinks and deep reds to vibrant oranges and yellows.

  • American Beech (Fagus grandifolia): This native overstory tree boasts versatility, thriving in full sun to partial shade conditions. It finds its best footing in moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil, offering striking fall foliage.

  • Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica): Another excellent choice for captivating fall colors, the Blackgum stands tall as an overstory tree and excels as an urban shade provider.

  • Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea): Most renowned for its brilliant fall foliage, the Scarlet Oak leaves a lasting impression with its glossy leaves.
MNI Direct: Your Partner in Plant Materials 
Since 2007, our team has been dedicated to providing the professional landscape trade with quality plant material and hardlines needed for success. 

We are dedicated to being a one-stop source for contractor planting needs, offering a vast array of options, and delivering the very best in customer service. As fall unfolds, MNI Direct remains committed to supporting your tree planting and landscaping endeavors across Atlanta, Georgia, Piedmont, South Carolina, and Rock Hill, South Carolina.

With our wealth of expertise and an extensive selection of trees tailored for this region, we don't just supply materials; we're your allies in creating vibrant, sustainable landscapes. 

Contact us today and become a member of our contractor community!