Plant a tree

Step by step

1. Mark out a planting hole, 1m in diameter and dig around the perimeter of the circle. Carefully remove the turf to a depth of 5cm.
2. Dig a square hole inside the circle, deep enough so that the soil level of the tree in the pot matches the ground level once the hole is filled in. Check the level by placing the pot in the middle and use a bamboo cane, or stick from one side of the hole to the other.
3. Create a slightly raised area in the middle - a ‘pedestal’ for the root ball to sit on. This prevents the tree from sitting in water and the roots rotting.
4. Fork the edges and base of the hole to loosen the soil for the roots to break through more easily. Gently remove the tree from its container or fabric wrapping. Then carefully tease the roots out from the root ball to encourage growth.
5. Backfill the hole, firming the ground by treading on the soil. Water the tree thoroughly. If the soil level drops, add more soil and firm again. 
6. Hammer a tree stake at a 45 degree angle against the prevailing wind. Use a tree tie with an expander to secure the tree firmly to it.
7. As the tree grows loosen the tie expander to prevent ring-barking. If rabbit and deer gaurds have been used to protect the tree from damage then also remove or expand these as the tree grows. This will protect from unwanted damage or disease, keeping the tree healthy.