1. Choose the Right Location

• Sunlight: Select a site that receives full sun, as chestnut trees need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Soil: Dunstan chestnuts prefer well-drained, acidic, loamy soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Avoid areas with heavy clay or poorly drained soil.
• Space: Ensure the site has enough space for the tree to grow to its full size, which can be 30-40 feet tall and wide.

2. Prepare the Planting Hole

• Size: Dig a hole that is 2-3 times wider than the root ball but only as deep as the sapling’s root system. The hole should be around 18-24 inches wide and 18 inches deep.
• Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil around the hole to allow the roots to spread easily. If the soil is poor, you can mix in organic matter or compost to improve drainage and fertility.

3. Inspect the Sapling

• Gently remove the sapling from its container or burlap. Check the roots to ensure they are not tangled or damaged. If the roots are circling, gently loosen them to encourage outward growth.

4. Plant the Sapling

• Placement: Place the sapling in the center of the hole, ensuring the root collar (where the roots meet the trunk) is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil surface. Avoid planting too deeply.
• Fill the Hole: Backfill the hole with the soil you removed, gently packing it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Do not compact the soil too much.

5. Water the Tree

• After planting, water the sapling thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks as the tree establishes itself.

6. Mulch the Base

• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, extending a few inches beyond the root zone. This helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

7. Stake the Tree (If Necessary)

• If the sapling is tall and top-heavy, consider staking it to provide stability until it establishes roots. Use soft ties to avoid damaging the bark. Remove the stakes after the first year to allow the tree to strengthen.

8. Monitor and Water Regularly

• Continue to water the sapling regularly, especially during dry periods. Newly planted trees need consistent moisture but be sure not to overwater.
• Keep an eye on the tree’s growth and health. Watch for signs of disease, pests, or nutrient deficiencies, and address them promptly.

9. Pruning and Care

• Prune any damaged or crossing branches in the first few years to encourage a strong central leader and well-spaced branches.
• As the tree matures, prune sparingly to maintain a healthy shape and promote good air circulation.

1. Choose the Right Location

• Sunlight: Red dogwood willows thrive in full sun or partial shade. Ideally, select a site that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Soil: These trees prefer moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. They tolerate a wide range of soil types but grow best in loamy, fertile soil. Avoid overly dry or clay-heavy areas.
• Space: Ensure there is adequate space around the sapling for it to spread as it matures. Red dogwood willows can grow to about 10-15 feet tall and wide.

2. Prepare the Planting Hole

• Size: Dig a hole that is about 1.5 to 2 times the size of the root ball. This will allow the roots to spread out easily. Aim for a hole that is approximately 18-24 inches wide and 12-18 inches deep.
• Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil around the hole and mix in some compost or organic matter if the soil is poor. This will improve drainage and provide nutrients.

3. Inspect the Sapling

• Examine the 2-foot tall red dogwood willow cutting to ensure the roots are healthy and not bound or dried out. If needed, gently trim any broken or damaged roots with clean pruning shears.
• If the sapling is in a pot, carefully remove it, being mindful not to disturb the root system too much.

4. Plant the Sapling

• Placement: Simply stick the cutting a few inches into the soil so that the cuttings can begin to grow roots. Be cautious not to plant it too deep.
• Fill the Hole: Begin backfilling the hole with the soil you removed, gently packing it around the roots to avoid air pockets. Ensure the sapling remains upright and centered in the hole while you do this.

5. Water the Tree

• Once planted, water the sapling thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Make sure the water soaks into the soil, reaching the root system.
• Continue to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, as red dogwood willows prefer moist conditions. This is especially important in the first few months as the sapling establishes itself.

6. Mulch the Base

• Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, extending about 12-18 inches beyond the root zone. This helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature.
• Be sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

7. Stake the Tree (If Necessary)

• If the sapling is tall or top-heavy, you may want to stake it to provide extra stability until the roots take hold. Use soft ties to avoid damaging the bark, and place the stakes on either side of the sapling.
• Remove the stakes after one growing season to allow the tree to develop its natural structure.

8. Monitor and Water Regularly

• Continue to monitor the soil moisture and water the tree as needed. Red dogwood willows thrive in moist soil, so keep it evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
• Watch for signs of stress, such as wilting leaves or discolored foliage, which could indicate over or underwatering, or potential pest or disease issues.

9. Pruning and Care

• In the early years, prune any damaged or dead branches to promote healthy growth and a strong structure. You can also shape the tree as needed to encourage a central leader and balanced branching.
• After the first growing season, prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning will help maintain the tree's shape and encourage more vibrant blooms.