Tree Planting/Care

Planting

  • A minimum of six (6) feet from the edge of the street pavement;
  • A minimum of two (2) feet from the edge of a sidewalk or property line;
  • A minimum of ten (10) feet from driveways;
  • A minimum distance apart, as specified by Pinecrest according to tree species;
  • A minimum of thirty to forty (30-40) feet from existing trees in the swale and on private property;
  • A minimum of fifteen (15) feet from street lights.

The authorized contractor is responsible for planting the tree(s) according to the specifications provided by the Village of Pinecrest. The contractor will add fertilizer and anti-desiccant to the soil to improve the survivability of the tree and mulch around the tree ring to keep the soil as moist as possible.

The homeowner must water the tree(s) every morning and afternoon for approximately 10 minutes for the first month and once a day for 15 minutes for the second and third months.

Care

Water Often. Water your tree on a regular basis. For the first month, water every morning and afternoon. Water the trees with a garden hose for about ten (10) minutes. Set the water to flow at a medium trickle; fill the saucer around the base of the tree and allow the water to percolate downward. Fifteen (15) minutes of water flow every day should be provided during the second and third month.

Keep a fresh ring of mulch. Never remove the mulch provided during the initial planting but whenever you see it dried out, add fresh mulch. At least a 6-foot diameter area of mulch around the tree should be maintained. This will help retain moisture, control the growth of weeds and grass, protect the trunk from lawn mowers and weed-wackers; control soil erosion; reduce soil compaction and provide nutrients to the root zone.

Fertilizer application. Only after the tree has been planted for six (6) months should you fertilize the tree. It is imperative to follow the label instructions when applying fertilizer. For the healthiest trees, fertilize, re-mulch and water deeply twice a year.

Avoid trunk damage. Always park your car several feet away from the tree. Take care while mowing your lawn and swale to avoid damaging the young trunk. Any trunk damage may result in disease, insect infestation or malformed growth.