Prairie Tree Care
Tree Planting

At Prairie Tree Care, our planting process begins long before the first shovel touches soil. We start with a comprehensive site evaluation, analyzing factors such as soil composition, drainage patterns, sun exposure, and existing landscape features. This detailed assessment helps us understand not just where a tree can survive, but where it can thrive. We consider both current conditions and future scenarios, including how the tree's eventual size will interact with structures, utilities, and other landscape elements. This forward-thinking approach prevents common issues that often don't become apparent until years after planting.

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Our commitment to quality begins with careful selection of premium nursery stock from trusted local growers in northern Illinois. We've cultivated relationships with regional nurseries because their trees offer significant advantages – they're already acclimated to our unique climate conditions, soil types, and seasonal patterns, dramatically improving survival rates and early growth success. These local partnerships also allow us to hand-select each specimen, ensuring you receive trees with strong structural form, healthy root systems, and excellent vigor. We can often visit nurseries with clients, helping them choose specific trees that match their vision while meeting our strict quality standards

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Proper timing is crucial for planting success. While trees can technically be planted throughout the growing season, certain times offer better conditions for establishment. We consider factors like seasonal rainfall patterns, temperature trends, and species-specific characteristics when scheduling plantings. This attention to timing helps reduce transplant shock and minimize the need for supplemental care during the critical establishment period.

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The actual planting process follows a meticulous protocol developed through years of experience and current research. We begin with proper hole preparation, ensuring adequate width and appropriate depth – a common saying in arboriculture is "plant it high, it won't die; plant it low, it won't grow." The planting hole is carefully sculpted to promote proper root development, with special attention paid to preventing future girdling roots that can strangle a tree as it matures. We analyze the root ball thoroughly, correcting any issues like circling roots before placement to prevent future problems.

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Soil management plays a crucial role in planting success. We assess existing soil conditions and make necessary amendments to provide optimal growing conditions. However, we're careful not to over-amend the planting hole, as this can discourage roots from expanding into native soil. Our approach focuses on creating conditions that promote long-term root development while ensuring proper drainage and aeration. When necessary, we can install soil drainage solutions to prevent water-related stress during establishment.

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Proper mulching is another critical component of our planting process. We install mulch rings using appropriate materials at the correct depth, avoiding common mistakes like "volcano mulching" that can damage trunk tissue and promote disease. Our mulching technique helps retain soil moisture, moderate soil temperature, and suppress competing vegetation while allowing proper gas exchange at the root collar.

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Initial stabilization, when necessary, is installed using methods that promote proper trunk development while preventing damage from wind or other environmental factors. We use modern staking techniques that allow for some movement (essential for proper trunk development) while providing adequate support during establishment. All stabilization systems are installed with clear removal dates to prevent long-term problems from forgotten materials.

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Post-planting care instructions are comprehensive and tailored to your specific situation. We provide detailed watering guidelines that account for your soil type, drainage conditions, and local climate patterns. Our team can create maintenance schedules that include proper mulch maintenance, monitoring for potential issues, and timing for early structural pruning when needed. We also offer ongoing care programs to ensure your new trees receive appropriate attention throughout their establishment period.

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Documentation is an important part of our planting service. We provide detailed records of the installation, including species information, planting depth, soil amendments used, and specific care instructions. This documentation helps ensure proper long-term care and can be valuable for warranty purposes or future property records. We also include information about what to expect during the establishment period and signs that might indicate potential issues requiring attention.

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At Prairie Tree Care, we understand that planting a tree is an investment in your property's future. Our comprehensive approach to tree planting combines technical expertise with attention to detail, ensuring your new trees have the best possible foundation for decades of healthy growth. Whether you're replacing a removed tree, adding new landscape features, or creating a legacy for future generations, our planting services provide the knowledge and care needed for long-term success.