Plant Care & Information
Evergreen Tree Care & Planting Guide
All Natural Trees For the Future
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Download our detailed PDF guide for reference in the field.
Planting for Wyoming
(And Everywhere Else)
Wyoming is a challenging state to grow in. High altitudes, howling winds, short dry summers, and cold winters are just a few of the obstacles. If our evergreen trees can thrive here, they can thrive almost anywhere.
The secret to success is protecting your young trees, especially during their first winter. Follow these instructions to help your seedlings establish strong roots.
Know Your Zone
All our plants and trees include their habitable zone according to the USDA Zone Maps. Click on the map below to visit the USDA website for further information.
1. Upon Arrival
Spring Orders
Trees arriving in spring are active and growing. Inspect them immediately for shipping damage.
- Plant immediately if no hard freezes are expected.
- Protect from direct harsh sunlight until planted.
Fall Orders
Evergreens arriving in fall are already winter hardened.
- Plant immediately; no frost danger.
- Allows acclimation before harsh weather.
Holding Instructions
If not planting immediately, keep in a bright, cool location out of direct sunlight. Keep roots moist.
WARNING: Do not soak in water for more than 24 hours. For plug seedlings, do not place the roots in water directly as this will dissolve the root bundle soil.
2. Planting Steps
Moisture Prep
Ensure root bundles are kept moist during prep, but do not submerge plug soil in water.
Dig & Insert
Dig deeper and wider than the roots. Do not break the root bundle!
Firm Soil
Gently firm soil to remove air pockets. Do not stomp or compact heavily.
The "Root Collar" Rule
The root collar (zone between root and stem) must be even with ground level.
- Too Deep: Suffocates the stem.
- Too Shallow: Dries out roots.
- Just Right: Level with soil.
CRITICAL CAUTION
Most of our trees have the root bundle intact as plug seedlings.
It is important that you DO NOT BREAK OR LOOSEN THE INDIVIDUAL ROOT BUNDLE.
First Year Survival Guide
Watering
Water deeply every 7-10 days. Let ground dry between waterings. Water consistently in fall until ground freezes.
Protection
Use wind barriers. Any reduction in exposure increases survival odds against "Winter Burn".
Wildlife
Use tree guards or poultry wire. Protect up to 6ft to deter hungry rabbits and deer.
No Fertilizer
Do NOT fertilize in Year 1. Give trees time to adapt. Fertilizing too early stresses young roots.
Planning Your Layout
Windbreaks
Reduce wind speed and protect structures.
- Multiple Rows: Plant 2-3 rows to prevent wind tunneling.
- Staggered Spacing: Use a zigzag pattern to fill gaps.
- Distance: Space trees 8-12ft apart.
Privacy Screens
Block sightlines and reduce neighborhood noise.
- Tighter Spacing: Plant 6-8ft apart for faster density.
- Mix Species: Adds texture and prevents total disease loss.
Long-Term Maintenance Guide
Mulching
2-4 inch layer of chips in a "doughnut" shape (away from trunk).
Weed Control
Keep a 3ft circle clear of competing grass and weeds.
Pruning
Prune only dead or double-leaders in late winter.
Local Expert Advice
We highly recommend checking with your local university agriculture extension for specific soil/pest advice for your region.