ISA Tree Selection and Planting 2

Question 1

What is the MOST critical step when planting a balled-and-burlapped (B&B) tree?

Accepted Answer

Locating the root flare and planting at the correct depth

Answer

Removing all wooden stakes before backfilling

Answer

Adding a complete fertilizer to the planting hole

Answer

Scoring the sides of the planting hole to promote drainage

Question 2

What is the recommended width of the planting hole for a new tree installation?

Accepted Answer

Two to three times the diameter of the root ball

Answer

Equal to the diameter of the root ball

Answer

One foot wider than the root ball on all sides

Answer

Deep and narrow to anchor and stabilize the tree

Question 3

After placing a balled-and-burlapped tree in the planting hole, the wire basket and burlap should be:

Accepted Answer

Cut away from the top third of the root ball after the tree is positioned

Answer

Left completely intact to preserve root ball integrity

Answer

Removed entirely before the tree is set in the hole

Answer

Buried as they will decompose within one growing season

Question 4

When planting container-grown trees, circling or girdling roots should be:

Accepted Answer

Straightened, redirected, or removed before planting

Answer

Left intact to avoid unnecessary root disturbance

Answer

Cut flush with the outer edge of the root ball

Answer

Buried deeply to encourage downward redirection

Question 5

What is the recommended mulch depth when mulching around a newly planted tree?

Accepted Answer

2–4 inches

Answer

1–2 inches

Answer

6–8 inches

Answer

10–12 inches

Question 6

The graft union on a grafted nursery tree should be positioned at planting so it is:

Accepted Answer

At or slightly above the finished soil grade

Answer

Below the soil surface to encourage scion rooting

Answer

Surrounded by moist mulch for protection

Answer

Wrapped with tree tape until established

Question 7

What is the PRIMARY purpose of creating a temporary watering berm (ring) around a newly planted tree?

Accepted Answer

To direct irrigation water to the root ball and reduce runoff

Answer

To prevent foot traffic from compacting the root zone

Answer

To protect surface roots from frost damage in winter

Answer

To prevent soil erosion during heavy rain events