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Plant a Tree on Arbor Day

Florida gardeners have two special days to plant a tree. One just about everyone knows is National Arbor Day celebrated in April. Florida also has an Arbor day Friday, January 21.

Could it be Florida gardeners just like to plant trees? Maybe - but also not long ago most trees were planted bare root, that’s without soil attached. It was best performed during the winter months and Florida Arbor Day served as a planting time reminder. Forest trees are still planted bare root during the cooler months.

Even though most trees for the home landscape are sold in containers to plant anytime, the tradition of a Florida Arbor Day continues. Use the following tree planting tips to make your Arbor Day celebrations a success.

Find the best site for a tree; normally away from wires and in full sun.
Dig the hole wider but not deeper than the root ball.
Fill in around the roots with water and soil.
Add a berm of soil around the edge of the root ball to hold water.
Water daily the first month; then as needed to keep the soil moist.
Only stake trees that may be affected by winds.
Keep young trees trimmed to a single trunk.