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Morton Arboretum offers tips on planting, growing trees

Experts at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle frequently field questions from homeowners about the best practices for planting and growing trees, said Julie Janoski, plant clinic manager.

A new living exhibit, the Gateway to Tree Science, aims to help guide budding arborists through the process.

Here's a look at some of the tree care advice that can be found in the exhibit when it opens June 8.

Q. I want to plant a tree in my yard. Where do I start?

A. The first step is picking the right kind of tree for the environment in which it will be planted.

Homeowners should evaluate whether the site is sunny or shady, wet or dry, and how much space is available. Then, they'll have to decide what they want out of a tree - a spring bloom, a fall color, a screen from their neighbors' yards.

Experts suggest a diversity of plant species in any particular area. If your neighbors have multiple maple trees, it's a good idea to try a different type of tree.

Q. Now that I've selected a tree, what are some best practices for planting it?

A. First, you'll need to find a space big enough for the root zone. Then, dig a hole twice as wide as the existing root ball of the plant.

When putting the tree in the ground, the soil level should be at the bottom of the root flare, or the area where the trunk meets the root, to allow the base of the tree to widen. The root zone needs to be watered frequently until it gets used to its environment and starts to develop.

Mulching around a new tree will protect the root zone and enrich the soil, though the mulch should be kept 3 to 4 inches away from the trunk.

Q. What factors should I keep in mind when planting a tree in a city?

A. Poor and compacted soil, limited space and pollution are among the unique stresses on trees planted in urban areas.

It's difficult for root systems to have enough room to develop in spaces surrounded by sidewalks and roads. And with so much hardscape, rain water often runs into sewers instead of the soil.

Experts at the arboretum are continually testing trees' capabilities in tough urban environments and researching how to overcome those challenges.

Ginkgo trees, for example, are tolerant of pollution, while honey locusts can handle poor root situations. Certain types of maples and oaks also are sturdier and more durable in those settings.

Q. What can I do to make sure my tree stays healthy as it grows?

A. Most people don't realize trees are still considered new for three to five years after they're planted, so it's important to water them regularly. Because the roots are still so small, natural rainfall might not provide enough moisture.

Mulch should be kept over the root zone as it expands, but avoid planting flowers and other garden plants in that area so as not to disturb the root system.

Another common misconception is that pruning a young tree can harm it. In reality, pruning within the first couple of years of a tree's life will ensure it remains structurally sound in the long term.

Q. How do I protect my tree from disease?

A. The long, cold winters and wet springs of late have made trees and plants more susceptible to fungal diseases. While the risks vary from tree to tree, those that receive proper care typically are able to resist the diseases better than others.

That means planting it in a good area, watering and mulching it properly, protecting its root system and making sure the tree isn't stressed.

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