What type of practice should be followed to maintain healthy tree growth after transplanting?

Minimizing disturbance to roots is critical for maintaining healthy tree growth after transplanting. When a tree is transplanted, its root system is often disturbed, which can lead to stress and inhibit its ability to absorb water and nutrients. By minimizing further disturbance, you allow the tree to recover and establish itself in its new environment more effectively. This practice involves being careful not to compact the soil around the roots and avoiding additional physical disruption as the tree adjusts to its new location.

The other practices, while beneficial in certain contexts, do not have the same direct impact on the root establishment process. Frequent pruning can actually stress the tree further by removing necessary foliage, which is essential for photosynthesis and energy production during its recovery. Regular watering is important but must be balanced; overwatering can lead to root rot, and insufficient watering can contribute to stress. The use of heavy mulch is helpful for moisture retention and weed suppression but should be applied judiciously. Excessive mulch can suffocate roots and create a habitat for pests. Thus, while these practices can support tree health, minimizing root disturbance stands out as the most crucial action immediately following transplanting.