Pro Tips And Common Mistakes
Install a slow release watering bag
During the first summer use a watering bag to slowly deliver moisture to the root zone, reducing stress and improving survival rates.
Do not amend backfill soil
Amended soil (anything other than the native soil) can discourage roots from growing out into the native soil
Stake only if necessary
Staking weakens the trunk. If staking is needed, make sure it is loose enough to allow some movement and remove after one growing season.
Fall is the best time to plant
Illinois trees benefit from fall planting (Sept. – Nov.). Cooler temperatures and consistent rainfall reduce stress and promote root growth before winter.
Monitor during the first year
Walk around your tree once a week and check for signs of drought stress (wilting or yellowing leaves) or pests. Early intervention prevents long term issues.
1. Don’t Plant the Wrong Tree
Mistake: Choosing species unsuited for Illinois’ climate, soil, or local conditions
Fix: Choose native Illinois trees like bur oak, swamp white oak, or serviceberry. Avoid invasive or weak-wooded trees like Bradford pear and silver maple.
2. Don’t Plant Too Deep (or Too Shallow)
Mistake: Burying the tree’s trunk flare or leaving roots exposed.
Fix: Before planting, find the trunk flare. It is where the tree trunk meets the roots and flares out. It might be at the top of the root ball or covered with soil several inches down. After placing the tree in the hole, check to make sure the trunk flare is visible just above the soil line. Don’t cover it with soil or mulch.
3. Don’t Dig the Wrong Size Hole
Mistake: Holes too narrow or too deep restrict root growth
Fix: Dig a hole 2–3 times as wide as the root ball but only as deep. This encourages outward root growth
4. Don’t Ignore Soil Drainage
Mistake: Planting in soggy, low-drainage areas leads to root rot.
Fix: Test your soil by filling the hole with water. If it drains in 1–2 hours, it’s suitable. Otherwise, improve drainage or choose a different site
5. Don’t Leave Wrappings on the Root Ball
Mistake: Failing to remove burlap, wire baskets, or plastic pots.
Fix: Always remove non-biodegradable wrappings. For natural burlap, peel it back below the soil line.
6. Don’t Create a Mulch Volcano
Mistake: Piling mulch against the trunk causes rot and pests.
Fix: Use 2–4 inches of mulch in a donut shape, leaving space around the trunk.
7. Don’t Water Incorrectly
Mistake: Too much or too little water, especially in the first year
Fix: Water daily for the first 1 -2 weeks. Afterwards, water deeply 1–2 times per week in the first two years. Adjust for rainfall and soil conditions
8. Don’t Over Prune at Planting
Mistake: Heavily trimming a new tree stresses it out.
Fix: Only remove dead or damaged branches when planting. Save structural pruning for year two or three.
9. Don’t Plant Too Close to Structures
Mistake: Not accounting for the tree’s mature size.
Fix: Research the full-grown width and height of the tree. Give it room to grow away from buildings, sidewalks, and other trees.
10. Don’t Forget Tree Protection
Mistake: Trees damaged by mowers, deer, or rabbits
Fix: Use tree guards or fencing, especially during the first few years.