Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a field-grown tree?

A:As the name suggests, field-grown trees are cultivated in the ground where they can grow large and robust. Field-grown trees are typically between 12 and 20 feet tall, with trunks ranging from 2 to 5 inches in diameter.

In addition to their size advantages, field-grown trees have naturally developed root systems, which allow them to thrive with less water during the first year.

Q: Why not container-grown trees?

A: Conventional wisdom says that planting container-grown trees is better because roots do not have to be cut. However, containers restrict proper root development, which makes adaptation to a new environment difficult. And container-grown trees are limited in size.

Q: When's the best time to plant a tree?

A. Trees can be successfully planted at any time of the year. However, field-grown trees can be dug from a nursery only during the dormant season, which in North Carolina spans from December through April. Trees for summer and early fall planting are also dug during the dormant season, then kept mulched and maintained until the time of planting.

Planting during the dormant season offers many advantages. Trees are more readily available during this time, and trees planted in this season will get the full benefit of the spring rains to aid in root growth.

Q: How much water do newly planted trees require?

A:Water is the single most important element for tree survival and growth. Whether your tree is recently planted or well-established, keep it properly watered in both the growing and dormant seasons.

Recently planted trees may need to be watered for two to three years until their root systems become established. For the first few months of the growing season after a tree is planted, the tree draws most of its moisture from the root ball. The root ball can dry out in only a day or two, even while surrounding soil remains moist. To water the root ball and surrounding area, let a hose run slowly at the base of the tree for five to 10 minutes. For established trees, keep the top eight to 12 inches of soil evenly moist all the way to the dripline, the furthest extent of the branches.

Q: What types of trees are available?

A: Native Elements stocks a wide range of trees that are native and naturalized to North Carolina. In addition, we can locate any tree available in the nursery trade. To see some of our most popular trees, visit our virtual nursery. To inquire about other trees, contact us.

Q: How are the trees planted in the landscape?

A: Once a tree has been selected for a site, Native Elements professionals install the tree using a specially designed skid steer loader equipped with a hole-digging auger. When conditions warrant, holes are dug by hand.

Q: Does Native Elements offer services other than planting trees?

A: Native Elements offers a full range of landscaping services, including design, bed preparation, shrub and perennial planting. Check out the services section of our Web site for more details.