Grindstone Ginkgo Tree

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Remove the stake and ties at planting, as these are only for shipping. Choose a location that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with native soil. Avoid amending poor soils with organic matter. Spread a 3-inch layer of mulch three feet around the tree, pulling it back several inches from the trunk. Water thoroughly.

2. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting, keeping the root zone moist but not waterlogged. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Once established, ginkgo trees are drought tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.

3. Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed to maintain the tree's natural shape. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring. If necessary, prune to shape your Ginkgo tree or manage its height while ensuring you do not remove more than 20% of the foliage in a single season.

4. Fertilizing: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced tree fertilizer to encourage healthy growth. Follow the label instructions for application rates, and consider a slow-release fertilizer for ongoing nutrient provision. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the tree.