Common Mistakes to Avoid During Tree Planting Season

Tree planting season is one of the most important windows of the year for farmers, landscaping contractors, tree planters, and landowners. Done right, it sets trees up for decades of healthy growth. Done wrong, it can mean slow establishment, disease, wind damage, or total failure.

Whether you’re planting shelterbelts on farmland, specimen trees in landscaped spaces, or replanting woodland, avoiding a few common mistakes can make all the difference. Below is a practical, seasonal tree planting guide with aftercare and product recommendations to help your saplings thrive.

1. Planting at the Wrong Time

One of the most common tree planting mistakes is ignoring seasonal conditions. While many assume spring is the only safe option, winter planting is ideal for bare-root and root-balled trees when the ground isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Why it matters: Trees planted during dormancy focus energy on root development rather than leaf growth, leading to stronger establishment.

Tip: Check soil temperature and drainage rather than relying on the calendar. If you can dig the soil cleanly, planting is usually safe.

2. Digging the Hole Incorrectly

A hole that’s too deep or too narrow can cause long-term damage.

Common errors include:

Planting too deep, burying the root flare
Digging narrow holes that restrict root spread
Leaving glazed or compacted sides in clay soils

Best practice: Dig a hole at least twice the width of the root system, but no deeper than the root collar. Loosen the sides to encourage outward root growth.

3. Skipping Soil Preparation

Trees are long-term investments, yet many are planted into poor or compacted soil without preparation.

Mistake: Assuming trees will “adapt” to any soil.

Solution:

Break up compacted ground
Improve drainage where needed
Mix in organic matter if soil quality is low (without over-enriching)

Good soil structure is one of the most overlooked tree care tips, especially on construction sites or heavy-use land.

4. Overlooking Tree Protection

Young trees are highly vulnerable during their first few seasons. Livestock, wildlife, wind, frost, and machinery all pose serious risks.

Common protection mistakes:

No guards in grazing areas
Inadequate wind support
Removing protection too early

Recommended tree protection products:

Tree guards or shelters for wildlife and frost protection
Stakes and adjustable ties for sapling support
Mulch mats to suppress weeds and retain moisture

Proper protection dramatically improves survival rates and reduces maintenance costs.

5. Incorrect Staking and Tying

While staking is essential in exposed areas, over-staking is a common problem.

What goes wrong:

Ties too tight, damaging bark
Stakes left in place for too long
No movement allowed, weakening trunk development

Best practice: Use flexible ties and allow slight movement. Check ties regularly and remove stakes once the tree is established.

6. Poor Watering After Planting

Many planting failures occur after the tree is already in the ground.

Mistake: Watering heavily at planting, then forgetting about it.

Sapling care tip: Water deeply and consistently during the first growing season, especially during dry spells. Newly planted trees need moisture at root depth, not frequent shallow watering.

7. Ignoring Aftercare and Maintenance

Planting is just the beginning. Without ongoing care, even well-planted trees can struggle.

Essential aftercare includes:

Regular inspections for pests or damage
Reapplying mulch annually
Adjusting or replacing guards and ties
Pruning only when necessary and at the right time

Planning for aftercare should be part of your overall garden planning or land management strategy.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common tree planting mistakes can significantly improve survival rates, growth speed, and long-term tree health. With the right timing, preparation, and tree protection products, planting season becomes an opportunity—not a risk.

For farmers, landscapers, tree planters, and landowners alike, investing a little more care at planting time pays off for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best season for tree planting?

Winter planting is ideal for bare-root and root-balled trees when soil conditions allow. Container-grown trees can be planted year-round with proper watering.

How deep should I plant a tree?

Plant so the root collar is level with the soil surface. Planting too deep is a common cause of tree failure.

Do all young trees need stakes?

Not always. Staking is recommended in windy or exposed areas, but unnecessary staking can weaken tree development.

How long should tree guards stay on?

Typically 2–5 years, depending on growth rate and risk from animals or machinery. Check guards regularly.

What’s the most common cause of sapling failure?

Poor aftercare—especially lack of watering and protection during the first year.

Should I fertilise at planting?

Generally no. Focus on good soil structure and moisture. Excess fertiliser can stress young roots.