How to reduce the effects of transplant shock in Biltmore Forest, NC (Part 3)
If you experience a great deal of harsh weather conditions like heavy winds, precipitation, and storms you may have to stake your tree down. It’s important to know though, that trees are known to experience reduced growth when they are staked down. This is only for people that experience heavy winds during the dormant season. Using two stakes with a long and free tie will do the job. You need to support on the bottom portion, this will encourage proper growth direction, and decrease trunk damage.
These stakes and ties should only remain on the tree for a total of one year. Next, you want to begin applying mulch to your new tree. This natural compound is dispersed on the foundation of the tree and helps to encourage positive growth. This is because mulch helps to contain moisture, regulate temperatures of the ground, and push weeds away. Some of the best mulches to use are leaf litter, bark shred, peat moss, pine, and wood chips.
Typically you want about 3 inches of mulch surrounding the foundation of the tree. Too much mulch will prevent oxygen from making it to the roots, which in turn causes weakened roots, and eventually a weak tree.