When you buy a tree, inspect it before you purchase. There are many points to consider when purchasing the most expensive and permanent plant you will buy for your home.
Trees have a long life, so selecting one that will live to its fullest maturity is the key. Selecting a poor one can be a burden for the gardener for many seasons. I know everyone loves to run out and find that great bargain from the big box stores or find an ailing tree from the discounted section of the nursery, but beware of what you are buying.
Regardless of where you buy your tree it is best to have an idea where it is best placed in your yard for optimal performance. Tree
s come packaged in many ways, some are containerized, balled and burlapped or bare rooted.
Many trees today are grafted to create a plant with the best possible characteristics. The DNA of trees are blended, such as a cold hardy variety may be grafted to an interesting bark tree with an ornamental weeping top. The key to owning one of these engineered beauties is to carefully select and inspect the graft for scars, which should be smaller than a dime. The shank or union should be straight as possible for growths. Make sure there are not papers, tape, or rubber bands coming from graft points - this could weaken the tree.
Also check for deep wounds on major branches. These wounds invite insects and diseases. Purchasing a tree is a commitment to planting and maintaining a healthy foundation, so it can mature to its fullest splendor. O
ther things to check for are poor crutches - these are overly acute rubbing branches. Choose a tree with a single straight leader from top to bottom.
Decide between a bare-root or container-grown plant; bare-root plants are cheaper but only available in autumn and winter, while container-grown plants are more expensive and available all year around. Rootballed plants are halfway between the two: field grown but lifted and the roots tightly wrapped in fabric, usually hessian. Hedging plants and specimen trees are often sold rootballed.
When I select a tree for a client I hand select through a variety of trees and their sizes. Believe me when I say that not all trees for sale are the same. The name and size of a tree may look similar, however the price and health of the tree is what one should be astute about.
Remember the goal is to purchase a tree that needs the least about of babysitting. Buying a TLC tree is a fun challenge and many stories and memories can be developed about saving tree. However, if you are planning a deliberate purchase for a permanent structure to your landscape, follow the guideline tips for selecting healthy tree. Good luck and happy planting!
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