Tree planting

[NJP87]

Hi all.

I want to plant some tree'sin the garden to attract the local birds but i am not sure when would be the best time to do it.

Is it to cold out to do it now?

Nick

[Cotham Marble]

Originally Posted by NJP87

Hi all.

I want to plant some tree'sin the garden to attract the local birds but i am not sure when would be the best time to do it. Is it to cold out to do it now? Nick

Not down in balmy Torquay

The basic principle is to plant deciduous trees in the dormant season, and evergreens in the early growing season. The only limitation on winter planting is if the soil is deeply frozen, apart from being hard work, the soil will not settle closely around the roots leaving them open to frost damage and infection. One way around this is to plant into unfrozen compost put into the planting hole - otherwise just choose a day somewhen between now and mid March, when the temperature has risen a bit.

Even if the ground is not frozen, and certainly if you are planting barerooted trees when there is a possibilty of further hard frosts in the coming week, I would suggest adding a 'blanket' of compost as precautionary protection.

CM

[NJP87]

Thanks CM.

Now to find a garden center that isn't empty.

Nick

[Jez]

Originally Posted by NJP87

Thanks CM.

Now to find a garden center that isn't empty.

Nick

You'll probably find it much much quieter at a local Nursery and they'll know there trees or should do

[NJP87]

I've had a look in most of my local carden centers but they are all abit bare, with little/no trees.

Nick

[Jez]

Hi again NJP87 do you know what trees your after? You could try googling Hopes Grove

[NJP87]

Not sure what i want yet, they need to be small.

Maybe a few apple tree's, also like the pussy willow.

[Jez]

Hi Nick

here are a few which might be of some interest to you?

Elder, Wild Cherry, Blackthorn, Dogwood, Hawthorn, Way fairing Tree, Wild Service. Apple trees and pussy willow are very good choices IMO

I'm sure you'll be happy with your purchases what ever you decide to plant and wish you many visiting & nesting birds 2009

Jez

[NJP87]

Thanks Jez, you've been a great help.