Growing Green:Tree Planting Initiatives in Flower Mound

Planting a tree and watching it grow over the years can be very fulfilling. To ensure the tree has everything it needs to prosper, it’s important to consider a few factors before getting started. Location, soil type, and the season all impact tree-planting success. This guide covers the basics of tree planting in Flower Mound, from choosing the right tree to planting it properly.

Choose the Right Tree

There are a few factors to consider when looking for the right tree. Flower Mound’s Urban Forestry mission is to encourage residents to select trees that are native to the area, which include a few types of oaks and elms, hickory, pecan, and many more. To take part in this community initiative, locals should try to choose a native species. These native trees need less water than exotic trees, giving them an extra environmental benefit. Additionally, it’s helpful to consider the tree’s mature size, its shade potential, and how it fits in the landscape aesthetically.

Pay Attention to Location

Planting a new tree in the best location ensures it can thrive without causing any hazards. Residents should avoid planting trees too close to power lines, sidewalks, easements, and structures such as homes and sheds. They should also look into underground utility lines and pipes on the property since tree roots can damage them. Homeowners should research planting distances to see how far away to plant a tree based on these factors.

Think About Soil Types

The soil type can make a big difference in overall tree growth and health. In North Texas, most of the soil consists of sand, silt, loam, and clay, and it’s alkaline on the pH scale. Trees native to North Texas are well suited for this type of soil and shouldn’t need many amendments to thrive. In many cases, mulching in the spring and fall can provide all the nutrients a native tree needs.

Plant at the Right Time

Image via Flickr by Tim Evanson

Planting a new tree at the right time reduces stress and ensures healthy growth. In general, it’s best to plant a tree in the fall after leaves drop or in the spring right before budding starts. This gives the tree time to establish roots and gain some stability before the hot, dry North Texas summer, which can cause a lot of stress to trees.

Use Proper Planting Techniques

Here are the basic steps for planting a new tree:

1. Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.
2. Plant the tree with some roots exposed — roots usually develop only a foot underground.
3. Pack the soil around the root ball to stabilize it and reduce air pockets.
4. Spread a small layer of mulch around the tree, but avoid putting it against the trunk to prevent root rot.

Trees play an important part in improving the beauty and environmental health of Flower Mound. During the planning phase of tree planting, it’s a good idea to work with an arborist who can give expert advice on the best type of tree based on your soil type, location, and preference. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.