What Are The Downsides Of Trying To Plant Trees Myself?

by | Feb 27, 2025

Planting Trees Yourself Can End Up Costing You More Money

If you are thinking about planting trees to your landscaping or an existing forest, you may be considering planting trees yourself. Planting trees may seem very straightforward, but there are many factors that need to be considered before, during, and after you plant trees. Making any mistakes along the way can end up costing you a lot of money and can lead to your tree not surviving. Below are a few things you need to consider before tree planting:

Picking The Wrong Tree For Your Environment

Your climate, soil type, and sun exposure are all factors that you should consider when deciding which tree to add to your landscaping. Some trees may not be suitable for the conditions that your property provides. This can lead to poor growth and issues down the line after tree planting. Understanding which options are best for your climate and landscape will help you pick the trees that will thrive in your environment. Working with a local arborist, such as Joseph Tree, can take the stress of finding which tree is right for you and planting it. Our team are experts in understanding which trees thrive in certain climate conditions and they will be able to show you what will grow best in your yard.

At Joseph Tree, Arborist Certification is a Priority
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Improper Tree Planting Techniques

Your tree will struggle to grow or even die if it is planted too deep. You also need to prepare the ground it is getting planted in, so it has the right conditions to help the roots establish themselves. If you do not plan and make these preparations before planting trees, it is very unlikely they will thrive. 

Damage To Utilities

Before you dig a hole for your tree, you need to know if any utility lines are planted in your yard. If you dig without checking for these underground lines, you may damage them. This is not only dangerous, but it can also be a very costly mistake. You will be responsible for the damage and repairs. Joseph Tree will be able to survey your land prior to planting trees and find all the utility lines that are present before digging so we know which areas need to be avoided. Our services cover all of the small details that keep you and your land safe from any harm or damage.

Structural and Growth Issues

One of the most common tree planting mistakes we see when people choose to plant trees is their oversight of the spacing and growth of the tree. Your tree may seem small now, but once it starts growing it can cause damage and become a big issue in the future. A lot of the time we see people planting trees too close to structures, driveways, and powerlines. Spacing can also be a major issue if you are planting a tree in an existing forest. Joseph Tree can help you find the perfect place for your trees and show you the impact they will have in the future. We work closely with our customers to understand their wants and needs from adding trees to their yards and forests so we can help create an environment that works for them at every stage. Whether you are looking to create more privacy or add more interest to your landscaping, it is important to take into account the growth and future of the tree so it saves you a headache in the future.

At Joseph Tree, Arborist Certification is a Priority

Poor Soil Conditions

Poor soil conditions can stunt the growth of your tree after planting and even lead to it not surviving. Working with an arborist will allow you to understand what nutrients your soil may lack or have too much of. If you do not take into account the health of your dirt before planting your tree, you may be exposing your new tree to an environment that could cause permanent damage. It is most important to check the carbon levels in your soil before tree planting. Low carbon levels will make it hard for your soil to retain water and make the tree difficult to care for. Our arborists can analyze your soil before tree planting and add any nutrients or carbon it may need to help create the perfect environment for your new tree. This will allow it to have its best chance at growing strong and surviving. Either of these issues can negatively affect your tree and make it even harder for roots to establish itself and thrive.

Incorrect Plant Aftercare

After your new tree is planted, it needs proper care to allow it to establish itself and get its roots planted for stability. Your tree will need the right balance of water and mulch for the first couple of months. These tasks can be tricky, and many beginners are unaware of the right combination that will help their tree thrive and avoid stress and transplant shock. At Joseph Tree, we will set you and your tree up for success. We will show you how to properly care for your new tree so it will have the best chance of surviving and growing strong. We will create a plan that caters to your tree and its environment, making it easy for you to care for it.

Want Help Adding Trees To Your Landscaping?

Tree planting can be very stressful. Before you decide to plant trees yourself, contact Joseph Tree and let us help you plan so your tree can have the best chance of growing strong. Planting new trees require years of care and maintenance. Before deciding to plant trees, contact one of our arborists so we can let you know which tree is best for your landscape and will best suit your lifestyle. We will help you create a custom plan for your yard and show you how your new tree will grow in its space in the years to come. Creating a beautiful yard and atmosphere can be very rewarding. Let Joseph Tree take the stress of planning, planting, and caring for your new tree off of your shoulders so you can sit back and enjoy your home. We have been planting trees and serving the Columbus, Ohio area since 2004. Our extensive research, training, and experience have helped many families find the right trees for their homes that they can easily manage. Whether you are planting one tree or a forest, Joseph Tree is ready to serve you. We can’t wait to help you find and plant the perfect tree that will complement your home and your lifestyle.