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Tree Planting After Removal: What to Consider

03 Aug, 2020 95
What Should I Consider Before Planting a New Tree Where My Old Tree Was?

So you've recently removed a dead/dying tree or shrub, and you're missing that beauty, that shade, and the privacy. We get it.

The number one thing you can do is plant a new tree.

Don't wait for time to pass. You want to start reaping those benefits again as soon as possible.

Autumn Blaze Maple planting near where an old tree was. 

This homeowner had a tree removed, and we replaced it with a healthy new Autumn Blaze Maple.


Existing Trees & Stumps

We recommend planting at least 5-10 ft away from the old stump if possible. Of course, this depends on the size of the old stump. Trust us; it is much better for your new tree. We understand that most homeowners won't have this kind of wiggle room. So long as you are not planting directly on top of the old stump, we should be able to install your new tree. Our crew will work with you to plant your new tree as close as possible to where you want it to go.

Stump grinding helps things along, but not enough to plant directly on top of where an old tree was. Most tree removal companies only grind down a stump 6-12 inches at best, and we will need to dig a hole about 3 feet deep to fit the rootball of the new tree. Every location is different, and if we run into roots that we can't remove with our small equipment, we may not be able to plant where you are hoping. Please remember that most trees will grow so large that moving your new tree a few feet one way or the other won't make a difference in the long run. So long as you're flexible, our crew can sometimes plant about 1-3 ft from the old stump.

If you need to plant a tree where there is a stump, the stump will need to be completely dug out and removed. The site must be excavated by 3ft deep X 4ft X 4ft. After excavation, the site must be filled back in with soil at grade level before we arrive. If this is the case, some homeowners ask about soil amendments. Soil amendments are not always necessary, but you're welcome to purchase the soil amendments before delivery and installation, and our crew can mix it in upon planting. It is a lot easier to pick another spot 5-10 feet away.

 

Before an after of a front yard tree planting near where an old tree was.


Small Tree Removal

If you have a small tree located where you would like to plant your new tree, we may be able to remove it for you for a small fee. We can remove trees that are 3 inches in trunk diameter or smaller. For this service, please email or call us.

 

Planting Locations

If the spot you chose for your tree does not appear viable and healthy, our crew will recommend an alternative location. To ensure full warranty coverage your new tree needs to get planted in a spot deemed suitable by our crew.

 
 
Utility Locating Before We Plant

JULIE markings
 
We will submit a J.U.L.I.E./DIGGER dig ticket before planting. Utility locators will mark the underground utilities on your property. Please pre-mark where you'd like your tree to go. That way, your property will be fully marked out by the utility company locators. Please note that we can't plant within 4ft of underground utilities. If you have utilities on private property, J.U.L.I.E./DIGGER will not locate these, and iTrees.com will not be responsible for damages. You are responsible for marking private utilities before we arrive to plant.
 
Read more about the importance of calling 811 before digging, here.
 
 
Contact us to discuss your tree placement.