Who Do You Hire to Plant Trees? A Complete Guide

While it’s possible to plant trees as a DIY project, you could also hire a certified and experienced professional who is knowledgeable about the health of trees. Depending on the size and complexity of your tree planting project, you can opt for a professional tree service company, landscaper, or arborist for the job.

Benefits of Hiring a Tree Service Company to Plant Trees 

While it’s possible to plant some varieties of small trees on your own, you could also hire a local tree planting service to do the job for you. These trained professionals have years of experience planting trees, and they have the knowledge and equipment to successfully incorporate them into your yard. 

Tree planting pros can also help you determine the best tree type and placement based on your yard features and soil type. They’ll also take care of all the project’s heavy lifting, including delivering and planting small and large trees. Additionally, hiring a tree planting service will ensure that your trees are planted safely and comply with local tree laws. 

Can I DIY Tree Planting?

You may consider a DIY tree planting project if you have a green thumb and the appropriate planting tools and materials. If you go this route, you’ll want to ensure that the tree is planted properly. Your tree’s longevity and health will depend on it. Knowing where to plant trees is also crucial, such as far away from utility equipment and your home’s foundation, while making sure it’s only on your property.  

Even if you decide to plant the trees yourself, it’s still helpful to consult with a tree planting pro. They can offer guidance on choosing the right type of tree, a safe planting location, and the best planting practices. Keep in mind that the cost of planting trees starts at $100 for trees under 6 feet tall or $255 for trees under 10 feet tall.

Can I Hire a Landscaper to Plant My Trees? 

Tree service companies and landscapers are almost one in the same. If your pro identifies as a “landscaper,” it’s highly likely they can plant trees as well. Landscapers can also play a bigger role in tree selection, guiding you on the right tree to select based on your climate, soil, personal style, and maintenance preferences.

Landscaping companies differ slightly from general tree service companies mainly when it comes to tree removal. Landscaping companies won’t remove large trees (think over 10 feet). If you need a large tree removed in order to plant a new one, it’s best to call a professional tree service company who can handle the entire job.

Can I Hire an Arborist to Plant My Trees? 

In addition to hiring a tree planting service, you could also hire an arborist to plant your trees. An arborist is a highly skilled professional certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists receive extensive education on how to plant, nurture, and maintain trees and other woody plants. They know the science behind how trees grow, making them qualified to perform several tree care services. 

A professional arborist can be certified or consulting. Certified arborists specialize in planting, pruning, removing, transplanting, and treating other issues pertaining to tree health. You’ll need to hire a certified arborist to plant trees, so be sure to confirm their qualifications before hiring them for your planting project. Keep in mind that hiring an arborist costs $50 to $150 per hour, and this expense will account for about 30% of the project cost.

How Do Professionals Plant Trees? 

Using their expertise, tree planting pros will strategize the best way to plant your trees to ensure they grow in a safe and healthy way. Here’s a general overview of the tree planting process: 

1. Clear the area. 

2. Dig a hole.

3. Place the tree in the planted hole.

4. Turn the tree, centering it in the best position. 

5. Massage and backfill around the root ball.

6. Create a watering berm.

7. Remove the nursery stake.

8. Install wooden stakes.

9. Secure the rubber ties.

10. Water the tree.

11. Mulch the planted area.

How Much Does Tree Planting Cost?

The average cost to plant a tree is $300, but prices can fall between $30 and $10,000, depending on factors like the tree’s size and type, as well as the location. Small saplings are the most budget-friendly at around $100, while large or elderly trees can cost thousands due to the need for special equipment, labor, and expertise. Planting many trees at once can lower the per-tree cost, and you can save money by choosing native or common species.

DIY vs. Hiring Pro

Since labor accounts for about 30% of professional tree planting costs, going the DIY route can help you save. However, common DIY errors can seriously hinder the tree’s chance at establishing itself in the new location. For instance, if you plant too deep, mishandle the root ball, skip proper site prep, or neglect aftercare, your tree may not survive, leading to more costs down the line.

If your budget allows, hiring a local tree service professional is the safest bet. When it comes to large trees, calling in the pros is usually necessary. Their size and weight make them nearly impossible to plant without specialized equipment, and renting that gear often costs as much as hiring an expert.