Virginia Green Grow Beyond Blog

How Do I Keep Newly Planted Trees Alive? 

Caroline R. from New Kent asked, “I just planted a new tree this summer, what is the best way to keep it alive?” 

Hundreds of thousands of trees are planted along city and community streets and on other public property throughout the United States each year. Unfortunately, many of these trees, perhaps 50 percent or more, do not survive beyond one or two years. Why? 

Almost everyone can agree, you know its spring once you see the cherry tree blooms. 

What are different types of Cherry trees?  

There are a couple of types of flowering Cherry trees, but the most common type is the Yoshino. The Prunus serrulata or Yoshino Flowering Cherry Tree is widely used as an ornamental tree; valued for its abundance of soft, pink flowers in spring. The tree is a native of Japan and was introduced in the states around 1902. This tree loves full sunlight and grows rapidly when planted in a spot that offers favorable conditions. 

Why should I fertilize my trees and shrubs?  

Tree and shrub fertilization can stimulate growth and maintain vigor. Most soils not disturbed by construction have plenty of nutrients to help with plant growth. The factors causing most tree and shrub problems are not nutritional but heavy clay soils, poor drainage, and incorrect planting. Since most urban environments have been disturbed by construction, and the natural cycling of nutrients is disrupted by leaf removal, there is a need to add nutrients back to the soil for tree and shrub use.  

Aeration and Seeding are essential to keep a healthy lawn of Tall Fescue. Ideally, you would have a weed-free lawn before you aerate and seed, but sometimes weeds still get through. 

A great lawn begins with great seed and choosing the right seed is important to your lawn’s success. For customers who wish to tackle aeration and seeding on their own, Virginia Green is selling our own proprietary seed blend. Our quality seed comes directly from our suppliers in Oregon which is 100% weed free and contains no other crop seeds. Our proprietary blend is comprised of two different fescue varieties – 97% of Tall Fescue and 3% of Kentucky Bluegrass.