Is it true that you can plant a tree too deep?

Question

We had trees planted on our property after building our house 3 years ago. We lost one this spring and another one looks weak. I was told the remaining ones should be "lifted" to survive. Wouldn't that kill the root system?

Answer 1

There is a collar at the base of the tree that can't be buried or it will rot the base and kill the tree. As long as you leave the roots covered, you are good.

There is an old adage. Plant it low the tree won't grow, Plant it high and it won't die.

Just make sure to plant it just deep enough to cover where the roots start to split out and you are good.

I just planted 3 trees and that is what the nursery told me.

Answer 2

Yes - there is an area above the root ball that should not be covered.  (I can't remember the exact name for it)  This is typical of some landscapers in a big hurry to get done quickly.  If they are lifted carefully, there should be minimal root damage - nothing that can't grow back.

Answer 3

it's called the 'root flare'.... and it must be just at ground level or the tree will experience 'failure to thrive'.... it won't exactly die, but it won't be living happy, either.... and eventually, it will succumb.... rather than dig up the tree, dig down, very carefully and by hand, to remove the soil around the base of the trunk and expose the flare.... then move out from there at that level, being very careful to not disturb as many roots as possible....add a thin layer of compost out about a foot from the trunk and then mulch..... but do not allow anything to cover the flare again.....

read here and follow links on bottom left for pictures and how to's...

http://www1.br.cc.va.us/murray/Arboricul...

slope your soil carefully so that the tree isn't sitting in a hole... but a 'well' would be a good idea... so that excess water is steered away from the base of the tree while keeping that which falls into it.......to make the well, hump up soil in a circle around the base of the tree about two ft or alittle more,  outside the trunk all around....  

Answer 4

Another point to consider.  How are your other plants doing?  You mentioned your house is 3 years old.  When houses are built, topsoil is usually hauled in.  the soil comes from a  number of sources, most likely from a farm where various chemicals would have a chance to contaminate it.  It may be your soil instead of your planting your trees too deeply.  You might want to check with your County Extension Agent for a soil test.

Answer 5

It's very true.  When that outer layer of bark rots away at the collar, the tree can't take up any moisture and the tree dehydrates to death.  It' a very slow and agonizing way to die.

It's not great for a 3 year old tree to be transplanted or lifted, but it's a better alternative to what you've got.