Planting Cedars

Created on November 29, 2021

Cedar Planting

Put your cedar hedge planting skills to the test

1 / 5

When planting cedars in a hedge, approximately how far apart should the trees be spaced from each other?

As close as possible so the client has an instant hedge. Root balls should be placed side by side no matter the size.

There should be approximately a 2 foot gap between root balls to allow proper drainage to occur.

There should be approximately 2 feet from trunk to trunk even if there are gaps between the trees.

3-4 feet, 4 if possible to allow the trees to grow outward as much as possible.

2 / 5

When creating a straight line hedge, what is the proper method

Some trees are bushier than other so some trees may need to be planted back further than others to ensure a straight appearance

Plant the trees in a rough line and fill in with soil around them using your foot to pack the soil gently. Then move any trees that do not seem to be lined up

It doesn't matter about the outward appearance of straightness. Just make sure the tree trunks are in a straight line and if the client complains then explain that's how it's supposed to look right now.

It doesn't matter if the hedge is straight because the wind will move the trees and once they get sheared next year they will look straight anyway

3 / 5

Select all true options regarding the burlap sack

The burlap sack should be left on the root ball. This protects the root ball and gives the tree a better chance at surviving

The burlap sack is usually made of plastic so should be removed completely before planting. Excess dirt and mud should be knocked loose of the root ball so that only a few roots remain and are exposed.

The burlap sack is usually biodegradable

Kick the burlap sack until it is loose enough that it falls off naturally

The top half of the burlap sack should be untied and peeled down after the tree is in the open hole but before soil is added for planting.

It is ok to move the tree by grabbing the burlap sack and lifting.

Don't touch the burlap sack or you may develop a rash or worse.

4 / 5

What is true about planting a cedar in soil that is clay based

Planting in clay is ok. Dig as deep as you can and add a 6" layer of crush gravel to allow for drainage, then make sure to add extra soil to berm up the planting area.

Never plant in clay no matter how loud the client demands it.

Planting in clay is not a great choice but can be done only in the Summer months.

Plant the cedars as low as possible in the hole. If planting in clay it is wise to make sure the entire root ball is surrounded 100% in clay for consistency.

Planting in clay is not ideal but if you must then make sure no more that 25% of the root ball is in clay even if that mean planting the cedar above the ground and berming up around the root ball with soil.

5 / 5

How much bone meal should be added when planting a cedar/hedge?

Mix in 1 cup of bone meal per tree but only on a dry day.

Mix in 3-4 cups per tree, rain or shine.

Mix in half a cup per tree, rain or shine.

Mix in 1 cup of bone meal but only if the soil is wet (or clay).

Your score is

The average score is 93%

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