Native Tree and Shrub Installation Services

Here at New Leaf, we take care of the entire native tree and shrub installation process, from sourcing and delivering plants and materials to the planting itself.

We consider many factors when installing trees and shrubs

First we ask: What does the client want to see?

Every client’s tastes, goals and property is different. That’s why we start with a conversation.

• How do you use your property?
• What native plant do you want to see in your landscape?
• Do you like bright colors or pastels?
• Do you prefer a formal or informal style?
• Are there elements in your neighbors’ properties that you particularly like or dislike?
• Is garden maintenance something you enjoy, are you looking for something low-maintenance or do you intend to use our garden caretaking services?

Then we ask: What’s already here?

We take our cues from the natural landscape around each property. First, we take inventory of the native flora already growing in the local forest and landscape. Next, we choose site-appropriate native trees and shrubs based on that inventory. By mimicking aspects of those ecosystems in the micro landscape around a client’s home, we can create a cohesive and consistent style.

Aesthetically, we strive to incorporate trees and shrubs that have a variety of foliage textures, branching habits, and flowering times. This not only provides the client with four-season interest, but it provides year-round food and habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife.

New Leaf Eco Landscapes plants all trees according to currently accepted planting standards as outlined in Principles and Practice of Planting Trees & Shrubs (1997, International Society of Arboriculture), and we take great care to ensure they are installed properly, for posterity.

We use consistent installation practices to promote the health and overall longevity of your new trees and shrubs.

• Preparation. First, we measure the root ball. Then we dig a hole no less than three times the diameter of that root ball. Also, we plant at a depth that allows the root flair to remain slightly above soil grade.
• Digging. Depending on the scale of the planting and size of the plant at time of planting, we may dig by hand or with equipment.
• Backfilling. We begin my incorporating local, organic compost into the soil. Then we carefully backfill in around the root system to ensure that no air pockets remain.
• Soil Amendment. We always consider the role that beneficial fungi, bacteria, and soil microbes play in plant health. Depending on your site’s characteristics, we can amend the soil in different ways, to suit the needs of the individual property while encouraging root growth.
• Mulching. We apply a 3-4” layer of mulch generated from New Leaf Tree Service’s tree material around the tree. We do this while avoiding contact with the trunk. This prevents rot at the base of the tree, which could lead to the decline of the tree.
• Staking. We stake all deciduous trees triangularly to encourage a straight growth habit. Stakes are left on for one year following installation.

Post installation care of a native tree or shrub

• Promote Healthy Growth. Following tree and shrub installation, we recommend the installation of TreeDiapers to ensure adequate and consistent irrigation of new trees. We place them around the tree trunks and on top of the mulch ring. TreeDiapers are a low maintenance alternative to irrigation and constant watering, as they absorb rain water and slowly release it back to the tree as the soil dries.
• Protect Against Hungry Wildlife. We install 6’ deer fence (temporarily, until the plants are well established) to protect against animal browse.
• Schedule On-Going Maintenance. Clients have the option to sign up for continuing, scheduled maintenance.
• Become Part Of Our Plant Health Care Program. Our sister company, New Leaf Tree Services, Inc., offers a full range of treatments for soil, insect, fungal, and environmental issues that can affect plant health. We intentionally utilize practices that strengthen a plant’s ability to defend itself and repair damage, while supporting the surrounding ecosystem whenever possible. Learn more about this service by visiting the Plant Health Care Program page of the New Leaf Tree Services website.