How To Grow a Tree From a Sapling – THE Ultimate Guide!

Last Updated on September 16, 2022 by Griselda M.

You should learn how to grow a tree from a sapling, so you can grow many more trees in your backyard without having to start from seeds.

Tree saplings are usually produced by planting seedlings in nurseries. These seedlings are grown, to then be transplanted into the ground at the right time and are planted in groups of similar size. If you have purchased a tree or shrub from a nursery, you will most likely find that the plant is already planted in a pot. In some cases, the nursery will provide the pot as well.

In this guide, we will look at how to grow a tree from a sapling. This involves taking a sapling and growing it in the ground. The process of transplanting a tree from its pot is done at a later stage.

How To Grow A Tree From A Sapling – Step By Step Guide:

Step 1. Select a tree sapling

The first thing you need to do is to choose a tree sapling that has the potential to grow big.  You can select the tree sapling from any tree nursery or garden center. You should choose one with a height of about 6 inches and a width of 2 to 3 inches.

Step 2. Soak the sapling in water

Before planting it, you should soak the tree sapling in water for at least five hours.  This will ensure that the soil has enough time to absorb the moisture.  If you want to plant a tree in a pot, you should fill the pot with water and soak it for about four hours.

Step 3. Plant the tree sapling

Planting the tree sapling is the next step.  Make sure to dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the tree sapling.  Also, choose a location that will give the tree enough space to grow, where you can easily maintain the soil and keep the tree sapling in a location that is protected from strong winds.

The tree sapling should be planted at the same height as the tree’s trunk.  You should plant the tree sapling with its root ball facing upward, ensure you do this when planting with a shovel.  After planting, you should cover the root ball with a layer of soil and be sure to water the tree sapling.

Plant The Tree Sapling

Learn more about: How to Transplant a Small Oak Tree?

Step 4. Watering the tree sapling

After planting, you should water the tree sapling.  You can use a watering can or a garden hose.  Only water the tree sapling until the soil becomes moist.

If you are planting the tree sapling in a pot, you should water it once every week.  This will help to maintain the moisture in the soil. Try not to over-water the tree sapling.

This will help to prevent root rot. You should water the tree sapling in the morning and evening.

Step 5. Fertilizing the tree sapling

Fertilizing the tree sapling is the next step.  It is best to use a fertilizer that has a slow-release formula.  The fertilizer should have a recommended rate of 1/4 of the total amount of fertilizer you apply.

You should fertilize the tree sapling when the soil becomes dry.  This will help to maintain healthy growth.  If the tree sapling is in a pot, fertilize it every two weeks.  If the tree sapling is in the ground, do it every three weeks.

Step 6. Trimming the tree sapling

Trimming the tree sapling is the next step.  Trim the tree sapling when it is about 5 feet tall, using a pair of pruning shears or a saw.  If you are using a saw, make sure to use a saw with a cutting depth of 1/4 inch.

Trimming the tree sapling will help to improve its growth.  Trimming the tree sapling will also help to reduce the tree’s risk of falling over.  You can trim the tree sapling after it has been fertilized.

Caring For The Growing Sapling – Tips!

Once you have planted your sapling it is important to provide the proper care, which includes:

  • Provide it with adequate sunlight.
  • Watering and fertilizer. After planting, water it daily for the first week and then twice a week for the next several weeks.  During this time, it should receive at least 1 inch of water per week.  If you are using soil-based fertilizer, use it at planting and again during the second or third week.
  • Protect it from direct sun, wind, and rain.
  • Mulch the soil around the sapling.
  • Keep the sapling out of cold drafts.
  • As the tree grows, keep pruning back the branches so that they grow straight and strong. When it is ready to be transplanted, you will need to remove the sapling from its pot, place it in a bucket filled with water and soak it overnight before planting it.


Read more about: How to Grow a Maple Tree from a Sapling?

Final Remarks – How To Grow a Tree From a Sapling

Growing a tree from a sapling is easier than growing it from a seed because you won’t have to deal with the germination of seeds. Seed germination can be difficult especially if you don’t know how to germinate seeds indoors in a more controlled environment.

It’s best to buy your sapling or seedling directly from a reputable company that has experience germinating seeds. The main advantage of using trees that are grown from seedlings is that they will already be rooted in the pot, making it much easier to plant them in the ground. Seedlings will also grow faster and will have better roots than trees grown from cuttings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a sapling to grow into a tree?

It takes approximately 10 years for a sapling to grow into a tree.  Consistent watering of your tree is critical for your tree to ensure that it's always well fed.  Water is one of the nutrients a tree needs to grow well. Most stunted trees are due to a lack of water.

How old is a sapling tree?

An adult sapling tree is over 10 years old.  The age of your sapling tree is usually stamped on the tag attached to the tree.

What is the difference between sapling and seedling?

A sapling is a young tree.  Seedlings are baby trees that have sprouted from seeds.

What is the difference between a tree and a sapling?

A tree is an adult plant.  A sapling is a young tree.