Top 5 Tree Planting Mistakes

Authors

• Miles Becker, Utah State UniversityFollow
• Daniel Allen

Document Type

Factsheet

Publisher

Utah State University Extension

Publication Date

10-19-2026

First Page

1

Last Page

6

Abstract

Planting mistakes can substantially shorten a tree’s life. The consequences of planting mistakes may show up within a year or two or remain hidden until a tree dies inexplicably years later. In many cases, these planting mistakes are easy to avoid, saving the tree owner substantial money and time. Homeowners can use this list of five common planting problems to check the quality of work by hired professionals, as instructions for gardeners or landscapers, or as a quick reminder for more experienced tree planters. By making a few simple changes to tree planting, we will all benefit from longer-lived, larger trees gracing our cities and towns.

Recommended Citation

Becker, M., & Allen, D. (2026). Top 5 tree planting mistakes [Fact sheets]. Utah State University Extension.