Tree Planting Techniques and Considerations

Gary Johnson from the University of Minnesota discusses different options for purchasing nursery stock, focusing on rooting types: bare root, containerized, and balled and burlap. He explains the advantages and disadvantages of each type, including weight, ease of planting, and root system development. Bare root trees are lightweight but dry out quickly. Containerized trees come in various forms, such as plastic containers and synthetic bags, offering good root systems but requiring removal at planting. Balled and burlap trees maintain moisture well but are heavy and require equipment for handling.

What is one of the main advantages of bare-rooted trees?

• They are easy to transport due to their light weight.

• They are very heavy.

• They require no watering.

• They are always available year-round.

What is a significant disadvantage of bare-rooted trees?

• They require special soil.

• They are too expensive.

• They dry out quickly.

• They are difficult to plant.

What is a common feature of conventional plastic containers for trees?

• They are made of metal.

• They are biodegradable.

• They have vertical slots.

• They are smooth-sided.

What is the purpose of air root pruning containers?

• To increase the plant's height.

• To make the plant heavier.

• To prevent root growth.

• To enhance root growth by pruning root tips.

What should be done with synthetic bags at planting time?

• Cut and remove them.

• Paint them for decoration.

• Bury them with the plant.

• Leave them on the plant.

Why should synthetic bags not be planted with the tree?

• They are biodegradable.

• They are too expensive.

• They enhance root growth.

• They do not decompose and can harm the plant.

What is a key advantage of balled and burlap trees?

• They require no maintenance.

• They are easy to plant alone.

• They keep roots moist with a soil ball.

• They are very light.

What is a major challenge when handling balled and burlap trees?

• They dry out quickly.

• They are very heavy.

• They are prone to disease.

• They are too small.

What is the maximum tree diameter that can be handled with balled and burlap trees using the right equipment?

• 5 inches

• 10 inches

• 15 inches

• 20 inches

What is a common method to lift balled and burlap trees?

• Using a garden hose.

• Using a hay hook with multiple people.

• Using a single person.

• Using a small shovel.