How to Properly Plant a Tree
🌳 How to Properly Plant a Tree (The Byrd’s Lawn and Landscape Way)
Planting a tree is more than just digging a hole and dropping it in—especially here in Brevard County, Florida, where the coastal climate, sandy soil, and stormy seasons all play a part in how your tree will grow and thrive. At Byrd’s Lawn and Landscape, we’re proud to help Florida homeowners create beautiful, sustainable landscapes—starting with the proper way to plant a tree.
Here’s our expert step-by-step guide to planting a tree in Brevard County that will last for generations:
🌱 Step 1: Choose the Right Tree for Florida’s Climate
Florida’s heat, humidity, and occasional salt spray aren’t for every tree. At Byrd’s, we always start with native or Florida-friendly trees that are drought-tolerant and storm-resilient.
Top picks for Melbourne, FL:
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) – iconic and incredibly strong
Southern Magnolia – elegant with fragrant flowers
Crape Myrtle – great for color and curb appeal
Florida Slash Pine – a native species that supports local wildlife
We help our customers choose the right tree based on location, yard size, sun exposure, and soil conditions.
🌾 Step 2: Pick the Perfect Spot
Trees need space to grow—both above and below ground. When Byrd’s designs a tree planting plan, we consider:
Distance from buildings, sidewalks, and power lines
Drainage—trees don’t like to sit in standing water
Sunlight—most trees need 6+ hours of sun daily
Future growth—roots can spread far and wide!
đź•ł Step 3: Dig Smart, Not Deep
This is where most people go wrong.
At Byrd’s, we follow the golden rule: “Plant it high, it won’t die. Plant it low, it won’t grow.” Here’s how to dig the perfect hole:
Width: 2–3 times wider than the root ball
Depth: No deeper than the root ball itself
The top of the root flare should sit slightly above ground level
This keeps your tree from settling too deep over time, which can lead to rot and poor oxygen flow.
🌿 Step 4: Prep the Soil – Florida Style
Melbourne’s soil is often sandy, which drains fast and doesn’t hold nutrients well. Byrd’s Lawn and Landscape recommends amending the soil with:
Organic compost
Pine bark or peat moss
A starter fertilizer (use a slow-release formula ideal for new plantings)
We mix native soil with amendments to create a loose, well-draining, nutrient-rich environment for your new tree.
🌊 Step 5: Water the Right Way
In Florida’s heat, watering is everything, especially in the first few months.
Byrd’s watering guide for new trees:
Water daily for the first 2 weeks
Then 2–3 times per week for the next 2–3 months
After that, water weekly until fully established (around 1 year)
We also create a soil berm around the planting area to hold water and keep it from running off too quickly.
🌲 Step 6: Mulch Like a Pro
Mulching helps retain moisture, prevent weeds, and regulate soil temperature—but only if it’s done right.
At Byrd’s, we:
Use 2–3 inches of organic mulch (pine bark, cypress, or hardwood)
Keep mulch 2–3 inches away from the trunk
Create a donut shape—not a volcano!
This prevents rot, pests, and fungal infections at the base of the tree.
đź› Bonus Tip: Stake Only If Necessary
We only stake young trees if they’re in a high-wind area or have a weak root system. If staked, we use flexible ties and remove them after 6–12 months to allow for natural movement and trunk strength.
🌳 Let Byrd’s Handle It From Root to Canopy
Planting a tree the right way sets the tone for its entire lifespan. At Byrd’s Lawn and Landscape, we don’t just plant trees—we build healthy, beautiful landscapes that stand the test of time and Florida’s unpredictable weather.
Whether you’re adding shade, privacy, or a pop of color, let our expert team help you choose, plant, and care for your trees the Byrd’s way—rooted in quality, grown with care.
đź“Ť Serving Melbourne, FL and the surrounding Space Coast đź“ž Call us today for a free consultation!