Question:
What can I do if my tree was planted too deeply?Answer:
If you cannot see the trunk flare at the base of the tree, it is planted too deeply. There are limited options to fix this issue.
If the tree is newly planted (within the last year, maybe two) or not yet fully established in the surrounding soil, it may be possible to replant it at the correct depth. Remember that loose soil at the bottom of the planting hole can settle, allowing the trunk flare to sink lower in the ground after planting. Set the tree at a depth to account for this settling. You can determine if the tree has established into the surrounding soil by moving the trunk back and forth with your hand. If the root ball can be seen moving in the soil with the tree, it is not fully rooted in yet.
Often, problems associated with improper planting depth don't show up until several years after planting, and by then, there is nothing you can do to correct them. Trees are often too large and established to be practically replanted at a higher level. The only way to prevent limb dieback from planting too deeply is to place the tree at the proper depth at the time of planting.
Learn more in these articles: What is the proper planting depth for a tree? and Tree Planting Basics.
