Tree Instructions

This page is for those who received a tree at the Olney Days Parade.

Here are some basic instructions. If you cannot plant it within a few days, keep them cool, shaded, and moist; do not store in water.

1. Soak roots for 2-4 hours, but not overnight.
2. Dig a hole that is a little deeper than the roots.
3. Plant the seedling to the root line, which is where roots meet the stem.
4. Add the soil.
5. Water it well.
6. Add mulch to retain moisture and keep the area free of weeds.
7. If possible, protect the tree with deer fencing or a tree tube.

Seedling Species Description

White pine (Pinus strobus) – not powerline compatible

This evergreen averages 80 to 100 feet tall at maturity and has a crown spread between 30 and 50 feet. It has a tall straight stem up to 4 feet in diameter with branches commonly in whorls. This fast growing native prefers fertile well-drained soils and full sun, but young trees will tolerate light shade.

Swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor) – not powerline compatible

A medium sized native tree averaging 50 to 80 feet tall and 50 to 60 feet wide, swamp white oak tolerates poorly drained sites. It is drought tolerant, prefers part shade to full sun, and has a copper to red color in the fall. The acorns are eaten by a wide variety of wildlife.

Redosier dogwood (Cornus stolonifera) or (Cornus sericea)

Is a fast growing shrub, 10 to 20 feet tall and spread to10 feet, often forming dense thickets. Prefers moderate to full sunlight. Prefers rich, moist, poorly drained soils. Provides cover for birds and other small wildlife. Important food source for a variety of mammals.

Hazel Alder (Alnus serrulata)

A shrub to small tree, hazel alder grow in clumps in wet areas and along the banks of ponds and rivers. It usually grows 10 to 20 feet tall. Full sun to light shade. Yellow and orange fall color.

Willow oak (Quercus phellos) – not powerline compatible

Willow oak grows to 100 feet tall with a crown width of 30 to 50 feet. This native has a rapid growth rate, prefers moist, well-drained soils, full sun, and is drought and urban tolerant. You can expect to see the leaves change to a yellow to bronzy-red color in the fall. Its acorns provide a valuable food source for wildlife.

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Can grow 15 to 35 feet tall and spreads 15 to 25 feet. It is a member of the pea family which means it adds nitrogen to the soil. The flowers are pink to reddish purple and usually bloom mid to late April. Provides food for a variety of wildlife and insects. Prefers moist, rich, well-drained soil in partial shade or full sun. Cannot tolerate persistently wet sites (standing water).

Red maple (Acer rubrum) – not powerline compatible

Red maple commonly grows to 90 feet tall and is adaptable to a wide variety of sites. It will tolerate wet sites but will have best development under moist, well drained conditions.