Question:
When is the best time to plant a tree or shrub?
Answer:
You can plant your trees and shrubs anytime from early spring through late fall. The cooler periods in spring and fall are the optimal times to plant. If you plant during hotter parts of the summer, we recommend that you plant during the cooler parts of the day to minimize the stress on the plant.

Question:
What is the best shade tree for Colorado?
Answer:
There are many different shade trees that do well in our region. Some of the best performers are varieties of Maple, Ash, Oak, and Honeylocust. Other great choices would be Catalpa, Linden and Hackberry. With so many different options to choose from, you can be assured that we can help you select a great quality shade tree that will match your tastes and needs.

Question:
How much should I water my new tree?
Answer:
Many different factors will affect how you water your new tree. The key is creating a proper watering plan, customized for your soil composition, sun exposure, and drainage.

Question:
What fruit trees are best for Colorado?
Answer:
Many people enjoy their own little orchards in Colorado. Top fruit tree choices are apple, cherry, plum, and even peaches and pears can be good producers. Many times, late spring frosts are to blame for no or poor fruit production rather than our climate conditions. In Colorado, we experience “late frosts” that occur during a fruit trees blooming period that freeze the blossoms and reduce or eliminate the ability to produce fruit for that year. Covering your trees with plastic before a freeze will create a frost barrier that will keep your blossoms safe.

Question:
How much should I fertilize my new tree?
Answer:
You should not apply any harsh fertilizers to newly planted trees or shrubs. By giving the plant high amounts of nitrogen, it will tell the plant to “grow,” and it will. However, the plant will use all of its energy on putting on the growth rather than using its energy for root production which is the key to plant establishment. Proper watering during the growing season as well as maintaining soil moisture through the winter months until the plant is established.

Question:
When should I prune my trees and shrubs?
Answer:
Generally late winter or early spring before the plant becomes active is the optimal time to prune. Because the plant is still dormant, the stress to the plant will be minimal. Do not prune plants until they become fully established except for broken or damaged limbs and any dead wood (portions that do not leaf out.) Prune or remove no more than 1/3rd of the plant.

Question:
Should I amend the soil where I am planting?
Answer:
Yes, we recommend a mixture of about 1/2 compost with 1/2 existing soil. As the plant starts to establish its root system, it will gain the nutritional benefits of the compost while adapting to the surrounding soil in your yard. Over amending the planting hole may seem like a good idea, but it can cause serious problems over time. As the roots grow, they may thrive in the richly amended soil and it may appear extremely healthy. However, when the roots reach the edge of the planting hole, they will not be inclined to grow into the poor native soil. The roots will turn at the edge of the planting hole and the plant can become root bound, this is called J-rooting which can cause the plant to die unexpectedly after a few years.