Installation and Establishment Flashcards
6 cards from real Certified Arborist Test practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Installation and Establishment flashcards as text
What is the recommended depth for planting a container-grown tree?
Answer: With the root flare at or slightly above grade
The root flare (where roots begin to spread from the trunk) should be at or slightly above the surrounding grade. Planting too deep leads to girdling roots and bark decay.
When transplanting a balled-and-burlapped (B&B) tree, what should be done with the wire basket?
Answer: Remove or fold back the top third of the basket after the tree is in the hole
After positioning the tree, remove or bend back the top third of the wire basket and remove all burlap from the top. This prevents root girdling while maintaining root ball stability during planting.
What is the ideal mulch depth around a newly planted tree?
Answer: 2-4 inches
2-4 inches of mulch is ideal. It conserves moisture, moderates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds. More than 4 inches can cause moisture problems and attract rodents.
Why should mulch be kept away from the trunk of a newly planted tree?
Answer: It can cause bark decay, pest habitat, and girdling roots
Mulch piled against the trunk (volcano mulching) keeps bark constantly moist, promoting decay, providing habitat for bark-boring insects, and encouraging girdling roots to form above the root flare.
How often should a newly planted tree be watered during its first growing season?
Answer: Deeply 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rainfall and soil conditions
New trees need deep, regular watering — typically 2-3 times per week depending on soil type, weather, and rainfall. Shallow frequent watering encourages surface roots.
What is the purpose of staking a newly planted tree?
Answer: To provide temporary support until roots establish, allowing some trunk movement
Staking provides temporary support while roots establish. Some trunk movement is essential because it stimulates caliper growth and taper development. Stakes should be removed within 1-2 growing seasons.