How do I Plant Redwood Seedlings?

In order to plant redwood seedlings, it is first important to consider the size of the mature tree and its root system. For many people, the word "redwood" conjures up images of towering, monstrous, and magnificent trees that can dwarf even Paul Bunyon and his blue ox. Each redwood, however,even those that grow to glorious heights, have to begin as seedlings. Not all redwood seedlings grow into giants. Some species are smaller than the giants, although many species can easily grow well over 100 feet (30.48 meters).

Giant redwood seedlings should not be planted on property that cannot offer adequate room for the tree and the root system. In fact, planting a giant redwood on a small plot of land can quickly make one quite unpopular with neighbors as debris created by the tree may begin to fall onto other properties in bulk and the root systems may begin to crowd out plants in neighboring properties.

It is also important to consider the climate in which the redwood seedlings will be planted. Redwoods fare best in temperate climates. Climates that are too cold or too hot can kill redwood seedlings and make all planting efforts pointless. In order to confirm that redwood seedlings will thrive in one's land, check to make sure that one's climate zone will support the trees and make sure that the tree is in an area where it will get proper hydration.

Once redwood seedlings have become large and healthy enough to plant outdoors, the process of planting them is relatively simple. First, soak the roots of the seedling in lukewarm water for 15 minutes. This will help to loosen the roots and soil from their packaging without disturbing them too much. While the roots are soaking, dig a hole in the ground that is about two times as large as the roots and soil of the seedling.

Once the hole has been dug to the proper dimensions and the roots of the seedling have been properly soaked, gently move the seedling into the center of the hole. Then fill the extra space around the seedling with fertilizer. It is generally recommended to use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. Once this has been done, tamp the area around the seedling to make sure that the hole has been properly filled and that the seedling is secure in its new place. The final step is to give the seedling a healthy drink of water in its new home.