Planting

• Call 811 One-Call for utility locator service before creating site plan. Service is FREE.
• Once utility lines are marked, identify tree-planting locations 10-30 feet from building on the west, south, and/or east sides.
• Dig a hole at least two (2) times the diameter of the root ball, preferably wider.
• Always keep the top of the root ball level with surrounding grade. Never put soil on top of the root ball -- only around it.
• Water the root ball and backfill completely. Apply another 7 - 9 gallons of water over the entire planting zone.
• Remove all nursery ties, flagging, wire, rope, and tags. 
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Watering

• Ample soil moisture must be maintained throughout the two-year maintenance period. Need for watering can be determined by feeling the soil under the mulch at 3 - 6" depth for moisture. (Check twice per week for adequate soil moisture).
• Follow the 3-2-1 method: start by watering 3 times per week for the first month, 2 times per week for the second month and 1 time per week for the third month. Then water 2 times per month for the next 3 months and 1 time per month through the next growing season (March - August).

Mulch

• Mulch must be renewed once a year at 2" depth and at a radius of 24 - 36" from, but not touching, the trunk of each tree for the two-year maintenance period. Proper mulching helps retain water, moderates soil temperature, and can reduce the need for weed control .
• Inexpensive mulch is available from the City's brush site, located at 1800 Old Bitters Road. For more information, dial 311.

Tree Wells

• Tree wells must be kept free of weeds for the two-year maintenance period. This weed-free zone can be accomplished by pulling weeds on a monthly basis.
• Do not use string trimmers within the mulched area around a tree. String trimmers will damage and may kill the tree.