Eight steps to successful tree planting

By: Mark Kesby - Projects Officer
Liverpool Plains Land Management

Experience over several years has shown that there are several important steps to successful tree planting. While it is possible to take shortcuts, just like growing a crop, the more shortcuts you take, the higher the chance of failure. Also, if the preparation is good, then you are much less likely to follow up water which is very time consuming.

Step 1 - Preparation

If the site has a hardpan or other constraints then it is important to deep rip to enable moisture and the trees roots to get through. This should be the first operation when you are planning your tree planting program. It should be at least 6 months (preferably 12 months) before you want to plant. Don’t rip wet soil as this will cause smearing rather than shattering. When planting into softer, better structured soils, this step can be skipped if preferred.

Step 2 - Weeds

Keep the weeds under control along the rip lines until you plant. This can be done either by spraying glyphosate (or cultivating) a 1-2 metre strip. I prefer spraying as cultivation encourages more weeds. This fallow will enable the build up of soil moisture that is essential for success in all but the kindest seasons. Don’t cultivate or spray across the whole site as it will cause major weed issues after planting. Remember, the less cultivation, the less weeds.

Step 3 – Tree Species

Use the right mix of species. It is essential to use plants that are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Too often I see plantings which die as soon as conditions get tough because the wrong species was used. Challenges can include dry, heat, waterlogging or frosts. It’s very disheartening to lose trees, young or old.

Step 4 - Timing

Plant at the right time. Just like any crop, trees will be more successful if planted at the ideal time. There are two planting windows – early spring and autumn. Which time is best depends on local factors such as severity of frost, potential weed issues and when there is sufficient moisture stored.

Step 5 - Mulching

Use mulch. It will suppress weed competition (reducing maintenance) and help keep moisture in the soil. I have found that composted waste mulch (such as is available from Gunnedah Waste Management Facility) is better than old hay as it lasts longer and is less prone to digging by foxes and other animals looking for a feed. Mulch is almost essential in heavy soils. Once large cracks form around a young tree, death is almost inevitable.

Step 6 - Watering

I always water the trees in when planting. Normally, I don’t water again as it is very time consuming. Extended dry periods during the first season can cause high death rates despite good preparation. Follow up watering might help in this case. Be aware that this will be very time consuming and, unless significant amounts of water can be applied, probably won’t achieve much. Storing as much moisture as possible in the fallow prior to planting is the best insurance.

Step 7 - Weeding

Keep the weed competition down. Even using mulch, weeds will sometimes get away, robbing trees of moisture. Weeds can be removed by careful hand spraying with glyphosate (never hormone sprays) or chipping. Slashing between rows (provided there aren’t too many rocks) will also help tree growth and reduce the fire hazard.

Step 8 – Exclude Livestock

Exclude livestock for a minimum of 5-6 years, and then only brief grazing by young cattle or sheep. Long term access by cattle in particular will eventually lead to major losses of trees. Trees and cattle just aren’t compatible.