How To Plant A Tree: The Proper Tree Planting Depth

Watch our tutorial on how to find the right planting depth for your tree hole. A common mistake with planting trees, is when people assume the top of the root ball needs to be at grade.

RJ Laverne, Davey Tree Service expert and ISA Certified Arborist, is going to take you through an important step when you plant a tree: how to dig a hole for a tree.

Following these simple tree planting steps will help ensure that your tree is a strong and healthy addition to your landscape.

Step 1: Make sure you pick a tree or shrub that will thrive in the space you plant it.

Step 2: Don’t dig your hole too deep. It needs to be wide enough to accommodate the root system of the tree, but not too deep. When the tree is too deep the roots can’t get the oxygen they need that come from the top of the soil.

Step 3: Open up the burlap or bag that the tree comes in and identify where the first root is.

Step 4: Find the root flare (where the trunk meets the soil) and expose it by digging around it.

Remember Safety! Always wear proper safety gear when working.

Step 5: Measure the root ball. The tree’s hole needs to be twice as big as the root ball. Hint: You can use a shovel to measure the height of the root ball.

Step 6: Move the tree into the hole and start to unwrap it.

Contact your local professionally trained arborist with any concerns or questions you may have during your next tree planting project by visiting our website at

For more Tree Planting Tutorials, Watch our Step-by-Step Videos:
How to Plant a Tree: Steps to Transport Tree from Truck to Planting
How to Plant a Tree: Proper Mulching Around Trees