CHAMPAIGN, IL (May 20): Though National Arbor Day was the last Friday in April, many states celebrate at other times of the year based on the best planting season for their zone. In Maine, trees are still battling winter in April. May is when the trees begin to bloom. Therefore, Maine officially holds Arbor Days, the third full week of May. So next week, grab a shovel and plant a tree.

But wait, before planting a tree there are many things to consider, advises the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Choosing the right tree is the first step. Tree selection should be based on these criteria: the location in which it is to be planted, the correct species for the environment (resilience, hardiness, purpose), and long-term maintenance needs. A local nursery or tree farm should be able to assist in discovering the best tree based on these guidelines.

The second step, according to the ISA, is to make sure the tree is planted correctly. How a tree is planted, and initially maintained, makes all the difference in the world. Too many people are content to simply plant a tree, but don't ensure that the tree has the chance to go on to live for many years. "Planting a tree is making an investment in the future," says Sharon Lilly, ISA Educational Director. "You must care for and nurture your young tree so that it will pay dividends for years to come."

Tree Planting Tips:
Prepare the tree for planting.
For bareroot trees, neatly cut away any broken or damaged roots. Soak the roots for a few hours prior to planting to allow them to absorb water. Container-grown trees should have the plastic or metal containers completely removed. Carefully cut through any circling roots. Remove the top half of pressed peat/paper containers.
Balled and Burlapped ("B&B") trees should have all of the ropes cut. Pull the burlap at least 1/3 of the way down; slit remaining burlap to encourage root growth. If in a wire basket, cut away the top of the basket. Remove tags and labels.