You can also research which types of tree are best for your area through online resources or simply driving around your town and seeing what pines grow best.

Bare root seedlings: the roots of these are entirely exposed, which makes them the most vulnerable to the elements. Containerized seedlings: these roots are covered by soil in a biodegradable container, which can be planted directly into the ground as-is. Pot-grown seedlings: with these, the roots are also covered by soil, but both the roots and soil must be removed from the pot before planting. Burlap-balled trees: as the name suggests, these young transplants have their roots and soil wrapped in burlap, which can be planted as-is.

Because of their vulnerability, bare root seedlings have the shortest window for planting. If you decide to go with these, find out exactly when the dormant season is in your area so you don’t plant your tree too early or too late. [4] X Research source Pine trees are more resistant to frost than flowers. If you plant yours in spring, do so as soon as the ground thaws so you can maximize the later spring showers. However, you can still plant containerized seedlings, pot-grown seedlings, and burlap-balled trees later in the spring if necessary. Planting them in the fall causes less stress in the root system. However, burlap-balled trees fare the best through wintry conditions because they’re sturdier.

Do not open their packaging. Repair any tears, holes, or opened seals with tape. Opened packages allow moisture to escape, which may cause the roots to dry out. Keep them out of the sun, in a cool, well-ventilated area, ideally between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit (1. 7 to 3. 3 degrees Celsius), so they remain dormant until you’re ready to plant. If you’ve purchased more than one seedling and they come in boxes, keep your stacks no more than three boxes high. Allow room in between each stack so air can circulate between them.

Mold and mildew Missing or easily removed bark Broken stems and roots Dried-out roots

Bare root seedlings: gently pry any major roots away from each other if they appear bunched together. Pot-grown seedlings: once you remove the root structure and soil from the pot, inspect the soil’s edges. If roots appear to have curved back into the soil after reaching the pot’s walls, gently straighten them. If necessary, widen your hole to accommodate them. Containerized seedlings and burlap-balled trees: these can both be planted as-is, if desired. However, removing the container/burlap enables you to correct curling roots as you would with pot-grown seedlings. It also promotes faster growth after planting.

With bare root seedlings, be sure to pack topsoil in between each root when you first place it inside. Don’t use your feet or other broad objects to tamp the soil. Stick to something that’s only one or two inches (2. 5 to 5 cm) in diameter. This gives you more control so you can avoid damaging the roots underneath. Tamp gently, as compacting the soil too much can make it difficult for oxygen to reach the roots. The heavier or wetter the soil is, the less tamping it will need. With burlap-balled trees, you may need to stake them afterward to prevent them from falling over if they appear to be slanting or in danger of doing so.

If using wood chips, avoid those from black walnut trees, which contains elements that could inhibit your pine tree’s growth. Create a well in the soil around the trunk if the weather is hot and dry. It will help keep water near the tree.

Other materials, like cheese-cloth or some plastics, may reduce the amount of sunlight it receives, so use those if that’s all you have. But since they won’t block it entirely, opt for wood if possible.

Exact water needs will vary depending on the type of pine tree, the amount of direct sun it receives, the time of year and climate, and other factors. Contact a local nursery for more precise advice for water needs in your region.

Alternatively, to kill two birds with one store, simply install a plywood sunscreen around all sides.

Pine trees grow approximately 8 to 16 inches (20 to 40 cm) each year. [18] X Research source