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How to Plant an Oak Tree
Congratulations on receiving your first oak sapling! Now what on earth do you do with it? Don’t worry, we’ve put together a guide to ensure your oak sapling is planted correctly, safely and carefully. Let’s get to it.
Where should I plant an oak tree?
Oak saplings grow well in most soils. They are a hardy species and are capable of growing in both sandy or clay ground. The main consideration is to ensure that the soil you are using is deep enough to sustain an oak. They grow a big tap root that anchors them to the ground, so avoid shallow soils with limited rooting depth. The next consideration is to ensure that there is enough free space surrounding your oak.. Avoid planting under the shade of existing trees – oaks like to grow in full sunlight and spread out as much as they can!
How do I plant an oak tree?
Once you have secured your spot, it is time to start digging. Dig a hole big enough to comfortably take the oak tree and it’s pot. Next, refill the hole with soil until it covers the top of the pot and press down firmly with your foot. If you are protecting your tree with a spiral guard and cane, push the cane through the bottom of the pot, cutting a slit if necessary. This will secure the tree into the ground and keep it safe from hungry insects and animals.
When is the best time to plant an oak tree?
Traditionally the tree planting season runs from November to March. This is the recommended best time to plant an oak tree. However, because our oaks are despatched in degradable pots, they can actually be planted, in their pots, all year round.
How do I care for an oak tree after planting?
If you are planting the tree between April and September, water the tree regularly (once a week) for 2 months until the oak tree has grown a tap root into the soil. Keep an eye on the space around it to make sure it is free of any weeds. A spiral guard can be used to protect your oak tree from voles, rabbits and hares, but keep horses and other livestock away from young trees. If you have planted your oak correctly and in an appropriate spot, it should need minimal care after the 1st year of growth.
