How to plant a multi-stem tree: a step-by-step guide
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Suggested lead photograph: how to plant a multi-stem tree: a step-by-step guide
Planting a multi-stem tree well comes down to a few clear principles. Plant between autumn and spring, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, set the tree at the same level it grew in the nursery, anchor the root ball rather than the stems, and water deeply every week through its first two summers.
A well-chosen multi-stem tree can transform a garden almost overnight. Several stems rising from the base give a sculptural, layered look that suits everything from a small courtyard to a large country garden. Because they are an investment, it pays to plant them carefully, and this is how we plant multi-stems on our own projects.
When to plant
The best time to plant is between late autumn and early spring, while the tree is dormant and the soil is moist, and this is also the window in which root-balled trees are lifted from the field. Container-grown trees can be planted at any time of year, as long as you can keep them well watered in summer. Whichever you choose, wait for ground that is workable, rather than frozen or waterlogged.
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Suggested photograph: what you’ll need
What you’ll need
The kit is straightforward: a spade and a fork, some well-rotted organic matter or a good peat-free compost to improve poor soil, and a hose or watering bag with bark mulch to finish. For larger trees you will also want a below-ground anchoring kit or a set of low stakes.
Step by step
Choose your spot and dig the hole
Begin by checking the tree’s eventual height and spread, and give it room to grow away from walls and drains. It is worth thinking about how low sun will catch the stems and canopy, because that is when a multi-stem looks its best. Then dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, and loosen the sides and base with a fork so the roots can spread easily into the surrounding soil.
Set the level and find its best side
Place the tree so the top of the root ball sits level with, or very slightly above, the surrounding soil. Getting this depth right is one of the most important things you can do, because trees planted too deep are among the most likely to struggle. Multi-stems also have a front and a back, so step back and rotate the tree until it looks right from where you will see it most.
Backfill, anchor, water and mulch
Refill the hole with the soil you removed, mixing in organic matter if your ground is poor, and firm gently with your heel as you go to remove air pockets. Larger multi-stems are best secured with a below-ground anchor system, which holds the root ball steady without ties on the stems, while smaller trees can be held with two or three low stakes. Finally, water deeply straight after planting, then spread a 5 to 7 cm layer of bark mulch over the root area, keeping it clear of the stems.
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Suggested photograph: aftercare
Aftercare
The first two summers are the most important, because this is when the roots are growing out into the surrounding soil. Water deeply once a week in dry weather, and more often in heatwaves, rather than giving a little and often; a watering bag around the base makes this easy. Pruning can be kept to a minimum, removing only dead, damaged or crossing stems, ideally in late winter.
Our favourite multi-stems
A few of the trees we recommend most often are Parrotia persica for autumn colour, Amelanchier lamarckii for small gardens, Betula nigra for bark and damp ground, and Heptacodium miconioides for late-season scent. You’ll find them all in our multi-stem tree collection.
Choose yours in person
Every multi-stem is individual, so we always encourage you to choose by eye. Walk in to our Row Town showroom any time during opening hours, or book dedicated time with a specialist.