The best time to plant a tree is from October through April, when soil temperatures are warm and winter rains help establish roots. Looking to spruce up your yard with a new tree? Here’s how.
Dig the hole
Dig the hole twice as wide as the container and the same depth, or slightly shallower, as the root ball. Do not dig too deep, or the tree will sink and get stem rot.
Position the tree
Set the tree in the center. The top of the root ball should sit 1 to 2 inches above the soil line to account for settling.
Backfill the hole
Backfill with the original soil to help the tree adapt to local conditions. Tamp the soil gently with your hands or feet to remove large air pockets without packing it down too tightly. Shape a ring of soil around the outer edge of the root zone to hold water.
Add mulch
Spread a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the tree to retain moisture. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Water deeply
Water the new tree thoroughly right after planting.
Trees that thrive in Orange County
- Coast live oaks and marina strawberry madrones provide excellent shade and may help you qualify for rebates.
- Western redbuds and desert willows are excellent drought-resistant choices.
- Crape myrtles and jacarandas are ideal ornamental, flowering trees.
Plant a tree, get a rebate
If you’re redoing your landscape and using IRWD’s Turf Replacement Program to help pay for it, consider also applying for a rebate on trees — up to $100 per tree, and up to five trees!
For a tree to qualify, it must be expected to reach at least 15 feet in height with a canopy at least 10 feet wide. Visit IRWD.com/turfrebate.
