Looking After Your Newly Planted Trees and Hedging
TheNewly planted trees and hedges need extra attention while their roots establish in the surrounding soil. The first growing seasons are especially important: check the soil regularly, water thoroughly when it is drying out, and keep weeds and grass from competing with the new plants.
The right routine depends on the species, plant size, soil and weather. A large specimen tree, a small bare-root hedge and a container-grown plant will not all need exactly the same care. Use this guide alongside any plant-specific instructions supplied with your order.
Watering newly planted trees and hedges
Water the root area thoroughly after planting so the soil around the roots is moist. During the first growing seasons, check moisture regularly from spring to autumn, particularly in dry, warm or windy weather. Continue checking newly planted trees and hedges through dry spells for at least their first two years; larger specimen trees may need attention for longer. www.rhs.org.uk
Do not rely on a fixed calendar or on rainfall alone. Rain may not reach the rootball, especially beneath a canopy, beside a wall or under eaves. This can matter even in the North West, where a wet spell may be followed by dry or windy weather. Check the soil near the roots: if it is dry, water slowly at the base so moisture can soak in rather than run off. In heavy or poorly drained soil, check that the ground is not already saturated before watering again.
A deep, occasional soak is generally more useful than frequent splashes that only wet the surface. The amount needed varies with plant size and soil, so check that water has reached the root zone. Avoid directing a strong jet at the trunk or washing soil away from the roots.
Mulch and keep the base clear
A layer of organic mulch can help conserve moisture and reduce weed growth. Spread it over the soil around the root area, keeping it clear of the trunk and stems. Do not pile mulch against the bark or cover the base of hedge plants.
Keep grass and weeds away from newly planted trees and hedge lines while the plants establish. They compete for water and nutrients. Remove weeds carefully so you do not disturb the new roots, and avoid strimming close to trunks and stems, where the bark can be damaged.
Check tree supports and ties
If a tree has been staked or supported, check the stakes and ties periodically, especially after strong winds. Supports should hold the rootball steady without cutting into the trunk or preventing all natural movement. Loosen or adjust ties if they are becoming tight, and remove supports when the tree is sufficiently established, following the instructions for the support system used.
Feeding and pruning
Avoid applying fertiliser automatically at planting. Newly planted trees and hedges usually benefit most from settling in and developing roots. If growth is poor after establishment, check watering, drainage, planting depth and weed competition first. Feed only where appropriate for the plant and soil, and follow the product label or species-specific advice.
Pruning needs vary by species and by the type of plant supplied. Do not routinely prune a newly planted specimen tree unless removing damaged growth or following specific planting advice. Hedge plants may need formative trimming to encourage a dense shape, but timing and technique depend on the species. Check the plant-specific guidance before cutting, and check for nesting birds before trimming any hedge.
What to look for
Some leaf drop, slower growth or changes in appearance can occur after planting as a plant adjusts to its new position. Check the soil before changing your watering routine: wilting or yellowing can be associated with both dry and waterlogged roots.
Look out for persistently dry soil around the rootball, standing water that does not drain, loose supports, bark damage, or branches that are dying back. Correct the underlying condition where possible. If you are concerned about a plant supplied by Landscaping Emporium, contact our garden product team with your order details and clear photographs.
A simple establishment routine
Check soil moisture regularly during the first growing seasons, especially in dry weather.
Water slowly and thoroughly when the root area is drying out; reduce watering when the soil is already wet.
Keep grass and weeds away from the root area and use mulch without covering trunks or stems.
Check tree stakes and ties after windy weather and as the tree grows.
Follow species-specific advice before feeding or pruning.
With consistent checks and care suited to the plant and conditions, newly planted trees and hedges can establish well and become a lasting part of your garden. Explore our range of specimen trees and hedging plants if you are planning your next planting project.
For more detailed horticultural guidance, see the RHS guides to growing trees, growing hedges and watering.