Southern Cultivation

Survival and growth of your seedlings depend on proper handling prior to planting, use of correct planting methods and after-care planting.

Seedling Care and Handling

Transport seedlings carefully, avoiding rips or tears in packages, protecting them from exposure to wind or weather.
Avoid stacking too high. Crushing may occur.
Store seedlings in a cool, shaded area (34˚-36˚ F is ideal, 36˚-40˚F tolerable).
Protect seedlings from drying and water loss by minimizing exposure to drying air. Sprinkle with water occasionally if drying is apparent.
At the planting site, protect seedlings from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures. Use a covered vehicle, natural shade, or reflective cover. Do not use canvas or other non-reflective materials which may cause heat build-up.
Keep seedling bags and boxes tightly sealed except while removing trees.
Do not expose them to direct sunlight or heat sources. Do not allow to freeze.
Do not rip or tear roots from seedlings. If root pruning is necessary, use a sharp blade.

Remove all competing vegetation down to bare, mineral soil in a minimum area of one square foot for each seedling to be planted.
Remove all loose, non-soil debris from planting area.
Cultivation is beneficial prior to planting, but soil must be settled and firm at planting time.
Permanently drain excessive ground water or avoid planting in poorly drained areas.

Select a planting tool capable of opening a hole large enough to accommodate the entire root system.
Open a hole large enough for the root system to be planted straight without bending the roots.
Take one tree at a time from the seedling container, taking care that the remaining seedlings are not exposed to the air.
Place the seedling in the planting hole at a depth approximately ½-inch deeper than the nursery soil line. A color change on the stem will indicate the original soil line.
While holding the seedling in the correct position and at the right depth, bring loose, moist soil in around the root system and pack it firmly so that no air pockets form around the roots.

Keep your planting area free of weeds and grasses by shallow cultivation or herbicides use in order to maximize moisture and nutrient availability for your seedlings. CAUTION: If you use herbicides or other chemicals, follow label directions exactly or contact your Cooperative Extension Agent for application rates and methods.
If irrigation is available, water should be applied during spring and summer periods of droughty conditions. Normally the seedlings can survive without watering.
Keep livestock and poultry out of planting areas.
Examine trees often for damage from disease or rodents. Cultivation can reduce the risk of rodent damage. If disease is present, contact your Cooperative Extension Agent for recommendations for control.
Fertilizer is not recommended the first year following planting, as it may promote excessive top growth without supporting root development, which may lead to abnormal growth or mortality. Thereafter, if fertilizer is desirable, a slow-release, high-nitrogen fertilizer is recommended. Consult your local garden supplier for information.