Should I Dig a Square Hole When Planting a Tree?
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
A: You've probably heard the latest fad that trees and shrubs establish faster when planted in a square hole because the roots supposedly hit the corners and grow outward. Sounds logical(?), but there's not good scientific evidence to support it.
What really matters is how you dig the hole and set the plant, not whether it's square or round.
Dig the hole wide and shallow—about two to three times the width of the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball itself. Make sure the root flare is at or slightly above ground level, and prune out any circling or girdling roots before planting. Read more at: extension.colostate.edu/resource/understanding-tree-roots/
So, if a square hole is convenient, go ahead. But don't expect the corners to perform any magic tricks.
Proper planting depth, good root preparation, watering and mulch are far more important than the shape of the hole.
Read our Q & As with Keith Funk answering common Colorado gardening questions here. See his website: gardenwiseguy.com and hear him on the Garden Wise Radio Show
