TENNESSEE ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL
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Tree Planting & Care

Planting the right tree in the right place ensures long-term health and benefits while avoiding potential problems. It is important to plant trees and shrubs in the correct hardiness zone to minimize stress and maximize chances of survival. Choosing trees native to the region will reduce the need for extra care. When choosing a tree take into consideration factors like tree species, size at maturity, sunlight requirements, soil conditions, and potential conflicts with utilities or structures.

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Guidelines for Avoiding Conflicts with    Underground Utilities
  • ​Call 811 to locate pipes and wires before digging. 
  • Maintain a minimum distance of 5 feet from any buried utility line.
  • Increase that distance to 10 feet or more when working near sewer lines.
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What is the purpose of your tree? Take into account the potential benefits each tree can offer and assess what the most important for your needs. Benefits include:
Shade: Strategically placed trees can help save thousands per year in utility costs during hot and cold months. Planting decidous trees to the south and west of buildings will block solar radiation in the spring and summer and reduce cooling costs. it will allow the sun to warm your home and lower heating costs  in the winter.
Food production:  Plant tree for edible fruit, berries and/or nuts for food security.
Screening:
 Evergreen trees can screen structures from neighbors and noise pollution. it is recommended to plant evergreen trees primarily on the northern side of structures to safeguard from winter winds.
Wildlife/Environmental Support: Consider whether you want to attract birds or other wildlife with habitat and food sources.
Aestetics: Choose trees for spring flowers, fall color or unique shapes. 

Tips on How to Plant a Bare-Root Tree Seedling

Tree planting procedure for small bare root-seedlings in the fall season 
​TN Dept. of Agriculture / UTIA Extension publication 
 

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Before you prune, allow your tree some time to develop strong roots. It's best to wait at least three years after planting before pruning young trees.
ISA information on pruning young trees

Benefits of Dormant Season Pruning: Davey Tree Service

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More Planting Tips and Tree Care ​​
  • Insect and Disease Management : Bartlett Tree Experts
  • Urban Tree Resource Center includes trouble shooting insect damage or disease and tree care tips, and how to plant containerized trees: Nashville Tree Foundation
  • Caring for your tree (Watering, Pruning & Mulching)
  • How long does it take a bare root seedling to grow?
More Resources
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Tennessee Environmental Council
​One Vantage Way Suite E-250
​Nashville, TN 37228 | 615-248-6500 | [email protected] 
​TEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 1970.
TEC 
does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in its hiring, programs, or activities. 
To file a discrimination complaint, contact Gwendolyn Kanies at [email protected].
  • Home
  • Donate
    • Matching Gifts
    • Share 360
  • Get Involved
    • Volunteer & Events
    • Be An Ambassador
    • Pollinator Initiative
    • Composting Initiative >
      • Submit Compost Totals Here
      • Community Success Stories
      • Resources for Businesses
    • Recycling Initiative >
      • 2026 Nissan Franklin Recycles
      • Chattanooga Recycles
    • Watershed Initiative >
      • Davidson County Litter Cleanups
      • Grassy Branch Creek Restoration Project
      • Lytle Creek Restoration Project
      • Duck River Opportunities Project
      • Stream Support and Consulting
      • Citizen Action Guide
    • Tree Initiative >
      • Tennessee Tree Day >
        • Tree Planting & Care
        • Useful Tree Resources
        • Benefits of trees
      • Tennessee Chestnut Project
      • Guidelines For A Tennessee Tree Project Event
      • Tennessee Tree Varieties We Have Planted
  • About Us
    • Our Team
    • Board of Directors
    • Intern with TEC
    • Join Our Team
    • Mission, Vision & Accomplishments
    • 50 Years of Accomplishments