What type of soil should I use to prepare for planting Japanese Cherry tree?
I live in Montgomery County Pennsylvania. The ash tree in my front yard is dying by Emerald Ash Borer, and needs replacement. I plan to remove the dying ash tree now and plant a Japanese Cherry tree in May. My contractor will fill the whole with soil from now to May. What type of soil should I buy to prepare for planting Japanese Cherry tree?
Answer
Trees that have the greatest success are in a sunny location with moist, fertile soil. Have your contractor add organic material or compost to the bottom of the hole. Use compost to mulch your tree, being sure to keep the mulch 6" from the base of the tree, so the "flare" of the tree is not buried. Over mulching is the easiest way to kill tree. Be sure to water your tree well in the first year, using a slow dripping hose rather than a sprinkler or watering can. Deep watering once a week is better than frequent, shallow watering.
Good luck with your tree!