Planting Trees on Heavy Clay: Build a Mound, Don't Dig a Hole

Red clay holds water like a bathtub, drowning tree roots. The solution? Plant on top of the clay, not in it. Wait until fall (September) to plant, but start prepping now.

Mound Planting Method

1. Spade a 10-ft wide, 10-inch deep area.
2. Add 18 cubic feet of topsoil, compost, or soil conditioner.
3. Thoroughly mix with the native clay.
4. Form a broad mound; plant the tree in the center.

Roots will establish in the well-drained mound, while excess water drains away into the clay below. This technique works for most trees and shrubs on poorly drained soils.

Key reminder: Never plant trees in summer heat. Fall planting gives roots months to establish before winter.