Planting a techny arborvitae is a great way to add beauty and privacy to your garden or landscape. These evergreen trees are known for their dense foliage and upright growth habit. To ensure the successful establishment of your techny arborvitae, follow these steps:
1. Choose the right location: Techny arborvitae thrives in full sun to partial shade. Select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should be well-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
2. Dig a hole: The size of the hole should be slightly wider and deeper than the root ball of the tree. This allows the roots to spread out easily and establish themselves. If you are planting multiple arborvitae trees, space them at least 3 to 5 feet apart.
3. Prepare the root ball: Gently remove the techny arborvitae from its container, being careful not to damage the roots. If the roots are tightly wound, you can loosen them slightly with your hands or a gardening fork. This will encourage them to grow outward into the surrounding soil.
4. Place the tree in the hole: Position the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. If the hole is too deep, add some soil to the bottom to raise the tree to the proper level.
5. Backfill with soil: Fill the hole halfway with soil, gently firming it around the root ball to eliminate any air pockets. Avoid packing the soil too tightly as this can restrict root growth. Use a garden rake or your hands to break up any large clumps of soil.
6. Water thoroughly: After backfilling the hole halfway, water the techny arborvitae thoroughly. This helps settle the soil around the roots and ensures good contact between the roots and the surrounding soil. Use a gentle stream of water from a garden hose to soak the root system.
7. Finish backfilling: Once the water has soaked in, continue filling the hole with soil until it is level with the surrounding ground. Again, gently firm the soil to eliminate air pockets. Avoid piling soil against the trunk of the tree, as this can lead to rot or other problems.
8. Mulch the base: Spread a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the base of the techny arborvitae. This helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve the soil structure. Leave a small gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues.
9. Water regularly: Techny arborvitae requires regular watering during the first year after planting to aid in establishment. Water deeply once or twice a week, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Adjust the watering frequency based on weather conditions.
10. Monitor and maintain: Keep an eye on your techny arborvitae for signs of stress or disease. Prune any dead or damaged branches as needed to maintain its shape and health. Fertilize annually in early spring or late fall with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Remember, the success of planting a techny arborvitae depends on proper preparation, planting, and ongoing care. By following these steps, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy tree that enhances your garden or landscape for years to come.
