American Sycamore Tree

/Home/Garden Basics/Trees

Planting Instructions

Congratulations on your purchase! American Sycamore Trees are wonderful for privacy screens, wind barriers and as showpiece trees.

You have received a young American Sycamore tree. Do not be alarmed if it has no leaves; it has been in a dormant state. You may be surprised at what you see, so let us tell you what you have and what to do with your trees. Our foremost desire is for your satisfaction and success in growing your new tree!

A great deal of care has been taken to package your American Sycamore tree. Still, it has been in a dark box for two to three days, likely handled roughly and possibly exposed to extreme temperatures. Your tree may look a little wilted or dry, but this is common and nothing to be concerned about. It may have no leaves, but this is because it has either been trimmed or in a dormant state. A tree’s dormant state is the best time for it to be shipped because it requires minimal light and water.

We recommend that once you receive your tree, you plant it as soon as possible. If the roots look too dry, sprinkle some water on them. This will give it the water it was lacking when it was in transit. If immediate planting is not possible, store in a cool, dry, dark place such as an un-heated garage or basement.

Your new tree will soon thrive, but please allow it 6 weeks to become acclimated to its new surroundings and environment.

Important: If you are experiencing a severe drought, it is suggested that you plant your tree in a light colored pot and place it in the shade, or plant it in a well-shaded area in your lawn. Be sure to provide it with plenty of water because it can dry up easily.



Planting Instructions

Your planting site should be made of loose, quality soil. Dig your hole two times the width and depth of the root system of the plant your are working with. This will give the roots plenty of room to grow. When refilling the hole with soil, be sure to completely cover your roots with soil so that there are no air pockets underground. If pockets of air come in contact with your roots, they will dry out quickly. Cover the roots completely with soil but leave the stem above ground.

Be sure to read the following for further growth and amazing beauty of your American Sycamore Tree:

Initial Well Being - If you doubt that your American Sycamore tree is alive, perform the scratch test. Scratch off a small piece of your tree’s bark, approximately one inch above where the root system meets the stem. If the plant tissue underneath is white or green, it is alive; if it is brown or black, it is dead.

Seasonal Information - Be sure to plant your tree at least 6 weeks before your first frost. This will give the tree a chance to adjust to its new environment. If you are experiencing extreme heat, place your potted American Sycamore in a well-shaded area, such as a garage, or plant it in a well-shaded area in your lawn. Once older, your tree will be able to handle these temperatures. Typically trees do not experience much growth during times of extreme temperatures.

Watering – During the first year, make sure your tree gets water during extended dry spells, particularly in the summer months. Drooping leaves are a sign of both over or under watering, so take great care of your tree.

Fertilizer –Fertilize conservatively. Organic fertilizer high in nitrogen works well. You can use Miracle Grow, a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the tree directly. Instead, fertilize the tree’s soil.

Weed Control – Keep weeds and grass two to three feet away from the tree in the first year. Pull the weeds initially, and then you can use a growing mat or mulch. Do not spray Roundup on a young tree and be careful that wind does not blow chemical drift on the tree.

Deer – If you think deer may be a problem, sprinkle some “Deer Away” on the top of the tree until it grows beyond its reach.

Insects and Disease - The best defense is a healthy tree. These trees are very hardy. Good soil, proper feeding and keeping the tree from getting too much water are key to its prosperity.

If worms bite holes in the leaves you can sprinkle seven dust on them. These little bites do not affect the tree since it is growing at such a fast rate and putting on so many new leaves.

Pets – American Sycamore trees are not poisonous, so they will not harm your pets.

Winter Dormancy - During late fall and winter, your tree will go dormant. The leaves will fall off and the stem will turn brown. Nothing will be happening above ground, but the roots will continue to grow below, especially during nice days. This winter root growth will help accelerate growth when spring comes.

Contact Information

Fast Growing Trees Nursery
4475 Morris Park Dr. Ste. J.
Charlotte, NC 28227

Phone: 704-945-9264
Toll Free: 888-504-2001

Copyright © 2009 Fast Growing Trees Nursery. All Rights Reserved. Online Trees Nursery.