DIY Tree Planting: Can You Plant a Tree Yourself in South Florida?

Arbor Day inspires many homeowners to consider adding new trees to their landscape. This is especially important in areas like South Florida, where intense sun and heat beat down on homes and yards, and where over-development threatens our urban canopies.

While planting trees is one of the best ways to celebrate this holiday, the question remains: should you handle this project yourself or call in the professionals? The answer, of course, depends on a few different factors. Let’s look at when DIY tree planting works and when it doesn’t.

Key Takeaways:

• Small trees under 15 gallons are suitable for DIY planting, while larger species require professional installation for best results.
• Common planting mistakes include improper depth, insufficient watering during establishment, and underestimating mature tree size (and planting too close to the home or power lines).
• Native species, like live oak and sabal palm (among others), generally establish more easily and require less maintenance than non-native options, which may require irrigation.

DIY Tree Planting: When It Works

DIY tree planting can be a rewarding project for South Florida homeowners when the conditions are right. But there are a few things to keep in mind right off the bat:

• Most homeowners won’t be able to transport and plant species in containers larger than 15 gallons. Even 15-gallon trees could be challenging for some.
• The smaller the tree, the easier it will be to dig a properly sized hole.
• Smaller trees establish much quicker in the home landscape than larger specimens, and tend to grow into stronger, more reliable trees.
• Depending on the species and the growing conditions (sunlight, water, soil, etc.), a small tree can take 3-10 years to grow into a decent sized shade tree, full of foliage.

That being said, DIY planting does make a lot of sense when you’re okay planting 1, 3, 7, or even 15-gallon trees. If you have the patience to care for them, water them, and watch them grow over the course of a few years, then planting trees in your yard this Arbor Day is a great idea.

Planting your own small trees can also save you a bit of money versus hiring a professional. But that’s assuming you plant it correctly so it doesn’t just survive, but thrives.

DIY Tree Planting Factors to Consider in South Florida

Before you head off to the nursery and plant your new trees, there are a few things you need to keep in mind and plan beforehand.

• Locate underground utilities before you dig. You don’t want to accidentally break a water line with a shovel. And you don’t want to plant too close to underground utilities. Call 811 to submit a request.
• Avoid planting too close to structures (except for palms). Large trees can eventually overshadow homes and create hazards. Shade trees are best planted at least 20 feet from structures and power lines.
• Choose the right tree for the right place. You need to match the tree species to the conditions your yard offers. Some trees will thrive in shade or partial sun, but many others need full sun. Some prefer consistent irrigation, and others are drought tolerant.
• Plan for South Florida’s wet and dry seasons. New trees need consistent moisture to establish, which means extra watering during our dry months.
• Consider our challenging climate. Take advantage of the year-round growing season, but be aware that heat, drought, and hurricanes can affect tree growth. Native species, like live oak, sabal palm, sea grape, and Simpson’s stopper, are naturally adapted to these conditions and generally easier for homeowners to establish on their own.
• Time your planting for optimal growth. While northern states are limited to spring and fall planting, South Florida homeowners can plant trees almost any time of year. But spring is usually the best, as it aligns with the rainy season. However, be prepared for hurricane risks during storm season.
• Use stakes when necessary. Some trees, like larger palms, could benefit from stakes, but smaller trees generally don’t need them.

Common DIY Tree Planting Mistakes in South Florida

Even with the best intentions, many homeowners make avoidable mistakes when planting trees in South Florida. Avoiding these helps you save time, money, and disappointment:

• Planting Too Deep: The most common and serious mistake in our environment. The root flare (where the trunk begins to widen at the base) should always be visible above the soil line. When in doubt, plant slightly higher rather than deeper.
• Improper Watering: South Florida’s rainfall patterns mean newly planted trees often need supplemental irrigation, especially during their first year. A deep watering 2-3 times weekly is better than daily shallow watering that encourages weak surface roots.
• Mulching Mistakes: Many homeowners and even professional landscapers create “mulch volcanoes” by piling mulch against the trunk, promoting disease and pest problems. Keep mulch 2-3 inches deep in a ring around the tree, at least 6 inches away from the trunk.
• Underestimating Mature Size: Planting too close to foundations, driveways, or underground utilities can result in expensive damage as trees mature.
• Choosing the Wrong Species: Many homeowners select trees based solely on appearance without considering growth rate, mature size, or environmental needs. Before purchasing, research its full-grown dimensions and requirements to ensure it fits your landscape.

When Professional Tree Planting Is the Better Option

While DIY tree planting works well for smaller specimens, there are many situations when calling in professionals (like our team at Sherlock Tree) makes more sense, including:

• Large Species Installation: Trees in containers larger than 15 gallons generally require professional equipment and expertise. These larger trees are simply too heavy and unwieldy for most homeowners to handle safely. Plus, digging a hole large enough is a real challenge.
• Planting Palms: The good thing about palms is that mature specimens can be planted with a high success rate, providing homeowners with an immediate landscape impact. Again, these require specialized equipment to move and plant.
• High-End Landscapes: If you have a high-end property where professional landscaping is a must, then avoid DIY planting. Working with professionals ensures your property is planted beautifully, and in a way that complements the rest of your landscape.
• Estate-Wide Landscaping Projects: When planting multiple trees as part of a comprehensive landscape plan, professional installation ensures consistent quality and proper spacing for mature growth.
• Trees Requiring Crane Installation: Mature palm trees and large specimens, like oaks, often require crane installation, which is exclusively within the professional realm.

Recognizing when to choose professional tree installation can save you time, prevent costly mistakes, and ensure healthier, more beautiful trees for your South Florida property. This, in turn, helps improve property values, curb appeal, shade benefits, energy efficiency, and much more.

Selecting the Right Trees for South Florida Success

Choosing appropriate tree species is perhaps the most important decision you’ll make, whether planting yourself or hiring professionals. South Florida’s climate supports an incredible diversity of trees, but not all will thrive in every situation.

• Native Trees: Native trees, like live oak, sabal palm, Simpson’s stopper, and sea grape are naturally adapted to our climate extremes. These species generally require less maintenance and water once established. There are many other natives to consider in South Florida for a tropical, lush landscape year-round.
• Non-Native Options: Many non-native species, like royal poinciana and various palms, have adapted well to South Florida. However, they often require more care and attention, particularly regarding water and fertilizer.
• Coastal Property Considerations: Properties near the ocean need salt-tolerant species that can withstand salt spray and sandy soils. Good choices include sea grape, gumbo limbo, and sabal palm.
• Hurricane Resistance: In our hurricane-prone region, wind resistance matters. Trees with strong central leaders and deep root systems, like live oak, tend to withstand storms better than those with brittle wood or shallow roots.

Professional arborists can source higher quality specimens than those typically available at retail nurseries, ensuring your landscape maintains its upscale appearance.

FAQs About Tree Planting in South Florida

How soon after planting a tree myself should I expect to see significant growth?

In South Florida’s warm climate, most trees start showing noticeable growth 3-6 months after planting, though they typically spend the first year establishing roots rather than growing taller. Get your trees in the ground before summer, as they’ll likely make the most of the ample water and sunshine to put out new growth.

Do I need a permit to plant trees on my own property in South Florida?

Most residential tree planting doesn’t require permits, but some municipalities or HOAs have regulations about planting near property lines or replacing protected trees. Check with your local building department or city arborist before planting, especially for multiple trees, waterfront properties, or historic neighborhoods.

What’s the best season for DIY tree planting in South Florida?

The beginning of the rainy season (May through June) is ideal for tree planting in South Florida as the regular rainfall helps new trees establish without requiring as much supplemental watering. However, our climate allows for successful planting year-round with proper care.

How do I protect newly planted trees during hurricane season?

These are a good option if the tree is tall enough to benefit from stakes. But they should be removed after hurricane season is over so the tree can develop its own strength. Trees that are still too small for stakes may survive a hurricane on their own.

Make the Right Tree Planting Choice for Your South Florida Property with Help from Sherlock Tree

Whether you decide to plant trees yourself or hire professionals depends on your specific circumstances, budget, and the type of trees you want for your landscape. For smaller specimens and those with patience to watch them grow, DIY planting offers satisfaction and savings. For larger specimens, specialty trees, or estate properties, professional planting from Sherlock Tree provides expertise that ensures your investment thrives for decades to come.

If you’re ready to get started with professional tree planting today, then reach out to the team at Sherlock Tree at 954-788-4000 or request an appointment online today, so we can start planning your project.