That is only half the question. Why? Because when most people ask the question, they really want to know how easy it is to plant trees successfully so that they thrive and grow to maturity.

Another point to remember is that some trees are easier to grow than others, regardless of your level of expertise. I'll have some suggestions for you in this column. First, let's think about the absolute basics of introducing the tree into your landscape.

Different varieties of trees have different needs, but a non-profit web site operated by American Forests has some excellent general tree-planting tips, including the following:
• Select a site with enough room for roots and branches to reach full size.
• Avoid overhead and underground utilities.
• Prepare a planting area as deep as the root ball and three to five times its diameter by loosening the soil.
• Dig a hole in the middle of the area and set the root ball even with the ground level.
• Use water to settle soil and remove air pockets in planting area.
• Stake the tree to flex with the wind only if tree is unable to stand up to wind.
• Spread a two to three inch layer of mulch on entire area, but not within six inches of tree trunk.
You can find the entire article, along with some helpful diagrams here:

http://www.americanforests.org/resources/howtoplanttrees/

There are ways you can put the odds in your favor when it comes to planting trees that are more likely to thrive and grow successfully. Here's a word I want you to remember: Transplants.

Transplants are hardier, huskier, and more all-around balanced plants than seedlings. When planted in your landscape, the transplant has a greater chance of survival since it has already survived the shock of being transplanted once at the nursery.

So, if you're looking for an easier and more foolproof way of planting healthy successful trees without a lot of worry or risk, remember to look for "transplants!"


Jones, Steve. “Transplants Make Tree Planting Easier & More Successful.” 2003 http://www.progardenbiz.com/issues/v1issue2/Plant-Man-Gardening-Tips.html

When creating a new look for your home, it is important to get your yard right. This can make a big difference to the property's curb appeal and can change the experience of living there. But should you use grass to create a traditional lawn, or should you use gravel for a more contemporary look? Which is likely to create the most favorable visual effect? Which is most practical?

Largely, this depends on where you live. In Arizona's desert climate, a lawn can require a lot of irrigation to keep it looking good. However, you can mitigate this to an extent by choosing the right type of grass.

Whether you decide on grass or gravel, you will have to take the lead to keep your yard looking great. Many people mistakenly think that gravel does not require upkeep. That is not true. Although larger types of gravel will stay put longer than the small pieces that are readily caught up and lost, you will still have to add to your gravel to keep it looking great. There is also the tiresome job of removing gravel from spots that it was not intended to end up.

Many people think of gravel as something that will put an end to weeding, but this is only partially accurate. Weeds in gravel can actually be much more trouble because you can not keep them down with a mower - you will have to spray weed-killer or pull them out by hand. To reduce the problem, disperse your gravel on top of a sheet of weed cloth. Fabric performs better than plastic sheeting as it will allow for better drainage. If you do have to take care of a weed, keep applying weed killer to that spot or place a thicker layer of stone over it to prevent more from breaking through.

Whether you choose gravel or grass is contingent on how you want to use your yard. Pets generally prefer grass. And children who fall on gravel can hurt themselves, so it is not a good choice for play areas. Likewise, if you have a space with regular foot traffic, gravel will stand up to the wear and tear much better than grass.

Whatever you choose to use, it is going to make a big difference to the overall look of your home, so think carefully.



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