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Planting trees
Trees live longer than we do, so it’s worth being kind to them.
Always prepare the ground well and work lots of well-rotted compost or manure into the bottom of the planting hole.
Plant a tree at the same depth as it was originally grown. With a pot-grown tree, this means planting it so the top of the rootball is level with the surrounding ground.
A bare-root tree will have a ring of soil around its stem that shows the original planting depth; replant it at the same depth.
To check the planting depth is correct, lay your spade handle down over the planting hole to show the level of the surrounding soil.
Always stake a new tree for the first year after planting, until it has formed strong, new roots. A tall stake isn’t necessary - a short stake that just holds the bottom of the stem 45cm (1.5ft) firmly is much better because it allows the top to sway, which in turn strengthens the trunk. Knock a short stake in at an angle of 45 degrees, and use a shop-bought tree tie to hold the tree to the stake. Place a ‘buffer’ between the two so the bark isn’t rubbed off when it moves in the wind.
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 Tree care
Unfortunately you can’t just leave a newly planted tree to fend for itself; it will need looking after over the next year.
Water it well after planting, then spread 7.5cm (3in) of mulch to keep the ground moist around its roots. If the weather turns dry, water the tree’s roots thoroughly so they don’t suffer.
If a newly planted tree doesn’t grow, don’t throw it out. They can take time to establish roots. If no new leaves appear in spring, scrape the bark with your fingernail; if the tissue underneath looks green and feels flexible when bent, the tree is just resting, so give it time. If the tissue is brown and the twig snaps, then sorry, it’s curtains.
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Summary
Well, that’s it! You’ve completed the course, and if you’ve remembered it all you’ll have a good grounding in the art of garden planning.
You’ll know the important things to aim for are a sense of mystery, journey and surprise.
You’ll be brave enough to tackle a blank canvas or create an impressive garden when you didn’t think you had the time. You’ll be confident about working with water and know how to use the right plants to create a romantic, cottage effect or a natural garden.
You have the skills to make the most of a ‘difficult’ hot, sunny spot, and you know the tricks of the trade to make a small garden feel bigger.
So get some practice here with our virtual garden and try out some ideas of your own… and then have a go for real in your own garden. It’s fun, and you’ll soon see the difference good design makes. Enjoy yourself!
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Watch clips from programme eight:
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Go interactive with Alan!
You can explore this site with enhanced functionality by running our Flash version.
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