How To Plant A Live Oak Tree: The Ultimate Guide

If you’re looking for an evergreen tree that is both beautiful and resilient, a live oak tree is a perfect choice. Live oak trees can thrive in a variety of climates and soil types, making them a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers. In this guide, we will walk you through the process step-by-step so that you can have a healthy and thriving live oak tree in your yard!

When to Plant a Live Oak Tree

The ideal times for planting a live oak in Texas are as the temperatures begin to rise in early spring and in early fall once the temperatures have begun cooling off from the summer scorch. However, as long as the dirt is able to be turned, it is possible to plant a live oak tree. TreeNewal can help you determine any needed adjustments to care for your new tree, no matter the season!

How to Plant a Live Oak Tree

Plan

The first step is to choose the right location for your tree. Live oak trees need plenty of space to grow, so make sure you select a spot that is at least 20 feet away from any other trees or structures. The tree will also need access to full sunlight, so avoid shady areas. Once you’ve selected the perfect spot, it’s time to start digging!

Dig

Use a shovel to dig a hole that is twice the width of the tree’s root ball and just deep enough for the rootball to be 1”- 2” higher than the surrounding grade. Live oak trees need oxygen around the roots, so you don’t need to worry about making the hole too deep. Next, backfill the hole with soil until it is level with the surrounding ground.

Plant

Now it’s time to plant your tree! Gently removes the tree from its container and places it in the hole. Make sure that the roots are spread out evenly and that the tree is straight. Once the tree is in position, fill in the hole with soil, packing it gently around the roots.

Water

Water your tree deeply immediately after planting. Live oak trees are very drought-tolerant, but they need extra water when they are first getting established. Water the tree once a week for the first few months, then you can reduce watering to once every two weeks.

Fertilize

Fertilizing your live oak tree is important to ensure its health and growth. Use a tree fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and apply it around the base of the tree according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You should fertilize your tree three times a year: in early spring, late spring, and mid-summer.

Mulch

Mulching is another important step in caring for your live oak tree. Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil and keeps the roots cool. Apply a layer of mulch around the tree, making sure to keep it away from the trunk. A general rule of thumb is to use 2 to 4 inches of mulch.

What Kind of Maintenance Does a Live Oak Need?

Live oak trees are very low-maintenance and do not require a lot of care once they are established. However, there are a few things you should do on a regular basis to keep your tree healthy.

First, check the tree regularly for dead branches or leaves. Remove any dead material from the tree to keep it looking its best.

Second, keep an eye out for pests or diseases. Live oak trees are relatively resistant to pests and disease, but it is still a good idea to check for problems every few weeks. If you see any signs of trouble, contact a tree health care service for assistance.

Third, make sure the tree has enough water. Live oak trees are drought-tolerant, but they still need to be watered regularly. Water the tree once a week during the summer months and every two weeks during the winter.

Contact the Tree Experts

Keep the process of planting and maintaining a new live oak tree in your yard easy on yourself by calling in the experts! The ISA-Certified tree care professionals at TreeNewal are always ready to help you every step of the way, from planning and preparing to pruning and protecting. Contact us today for the top services in North Texas arboriculture.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your live oak tree stays healthy and thrives for many years to come!

If you need advice or assistance with getting your live oak trees ready for planting, get in touch with the ISA-certified arborists at TreeNewal and enjoy tailored tree care advice.

To learn more about How to Plant a Live Oak Tree: The Ultimate Guide, call our Argyle and Southlake-based teams

at (817) 592-6846 or send us a message.

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