Young trees usually need additional water for several years after transplanting. During dry periods, water once weekly, equivalent to about one inch of rainfall. Mulch will have to be replenished periodically. It is important that the mulch not touch the trunk - pull it one to two inches away from the trunk. Do not create a raised bed garden around the tree, or allow any additional soil to be placed around the trunk.
Fertilizer forces new trees to expend meager energy stores.
Use only a slow- release nitrogen, surface applied in the fall or early spring. Avoid using weed killers near trees, which absorb the chemicals through their roots. A ring of mulch around the tree helps keep mowing equipment away. This is the most critical time in a tree s life to train it for future beauty, strength, longevity, and ease of maintenance.