Why Did My Newly Planted Tree Die?
- Aaron Cull
- Jul 4
- 3 min read
You planted a tree with the best intentions. You chose a beautiful species, found a sunny spot, dug a hole, and watered it regularly. But weeks or months later, it’s yellowing, wilting, or worse, dead. If you’re wondering, "Why did my newly planted tree die?", you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we get at Evergreen LTD, Calgary’s trusted arborist team.
Tree deaths during the first year are almost always preventable. Here's what typically goes wrong, and how Evergreen LTD can ensure it goes right.
Improper Watering
Too little water: Young trees need consistent moisture since their roots haven’t spread out.
Too much water: Overwatering leads to root rot and oxygen starvation.
At Evergreen LTD, we evaluate your soil type, drainage, and local conditions and help you set the right watering schedule. We often recommend drip irrigation systems for deep, efficient watering that avoids root rot.
Planting Errors
Planted too deep: Burying the trunk flare below ground causes rot and weak root development.
Narrow planting holes: Roots can’t spread if the hole isn’t at least 2–3 times the root ball width.
Circling roots: If not addressed, these can strangle your tree over time.
Our ISA-certified arborists follow industry best practices for tree planting in Calgary’s challenging soil. We prune roots when needed, dig wide planting holes, and ensure the root flare is visible at soil level.
Soil Compaction and Poor Drainage
Calgary’s clay-heavy soils often compact easily, limiting oxygen to roots.
Poor drainage leads to waterlogged roots and fungal decay.
Evergreen LTD conducts soil assessments before planting. We amend soils with organic matter and improve drainage where needed to ensure your tree has a healthy foundation.
Transplant Shock
When a tree is moved, it loses many of its roots. If the canopy isn't reduced or the tree isn’t carefully cared for, it struggles to adapt.
We minimize transplant shock by carefully selecting nursery stock, pruning strategically, and applying mulch and proper watering routines.
Mulch Misuse
Mulch is great, unless it’s piled against the trunk or applied too thickly.
Mulch volcanoes cause stem rot, while heavy layers suffocate roots.
Our team applies mulch correctly: 2-4 inches thick in a ring around the root zone, always keeping it 6-10 inches from the trunk. This retains moisture and reduces competition without harming the tree.
Physical Damage from Animals or Equipment
Deer rubbing, rabbit chewing, or lawn mower nicks can girdle a young tree.
Improper staking may cause wounds or hinder the tree’s growth.
We use protective guards, proper staking methods, and educate property owners on maintenance protocols to prevent physical harm.
Pests and Disease
Stressed trees are magnets for pathogens and insects.
What Sets Evergreen LTD Apart
We set your trees up for long-term success. Calgary’s unique climate and soil require professional attention and customized care. Our team:
Conducts site and soil assessments.
Uses only high-quality, locally appropriate nursery stock.
Applies ISA-certified planting and aftercare standards.
Offers maintenance services for watering, mulching, and monitoring.
Provides education so clients understand how to support their trees long-term.
Preventing Tree Failure Starts with a Plan
When you hire Evergreen LTD, you’re not just getting a hole dug and a tree dropped in. You’re investing in:
The right tree for the right place.
Proven planting techniques.
Ongoing support to catch issues before they become fatal.
Don’t Guess, Ask Evergreen LTD
If your last tree didn’t survive, don’t go it alone this time. Contact Evergreen LTD for expert tree planting and care in Calgary. We’ll help you choose the best species, prepare your site, and maintain your tree for years to come.
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