Trees grow naturally over time and don't typically need constant attention or specialist care. 

This guide offers a few simple ways (including advice on our Leaf Tonic spray) to support your memorial tree and keep it in good shape.

What matters most

To thrive, trees need just a few simple things:

Light

Most trees do best with a good amount of natural light during the day. 

Even so, trees don't need constant bright light. By placing your tree in a spot with at least a little bit of sunlight, you're off to a great start.

Water

Trees need water to survive and just some moisture in the soil is all your tree needs. Rainfall will often take care of this, but during drier periods, it's worth watering your tree to keep the soil lightly moist. 

If the soil looks dry, give it some water to restore moisture. Avoid overwatering, especially in containers.

Soil

The nutrients naturally found in soil are ultimately what feeds your tree. Well-drained soil is usually best, meaning water doesn't tend to pool there after heavy rainfall.

Using good quality compost with your soil is the best way to help your tree thrive.

Space to grow

Over time, your tree with grow into the space it's planted - both above and below ground. Some trees grow larger than others, and if you're planting in a pot, make sure it's big enough to allow the roots enough space. We recommend a 40 - 50 litre pot for starting out.

Every couple of years, you can check if the roots have started to circle the end of pot and become "root bound". If so, it's time to move to a bigger pot or plant in the ground.

Time

The life of a tree is more of a marathon than a race. In the first season after planting, trees establish slowly in their environment and then grow gradually over the following years.

What's normal

When you care for a tree, it's easy to worry when you notice a change in its appearance. Before any worry, it's worth remembering a few things:

• Leaves may change colour or drop (especially early on)
• Growth may be slow in the first season
• Trees can look slightly stressed after planting
• Seasonal variation in leaf colour and shape is normal

An added support for your tree - Leaf Tonic

With your tree, we have included a bottle of Leaf Tonic spray.

This is a gentle, seaweed-based tonic that supports leaf health and helps during its first few years. It's not a fertiliser or treatment and not required for your tree to survive, but you may choose to use it for the gentle support it can provide.

How to use it

When

• Evening or early morning is best
• Avoid spraying while in direct sunlight, frost or heat

How

• Lightly mist leaves until just damp, not dripping
  
• A few sprays for your whole tree is enough
• You can spray both the top and underside of the leaves

How often

• Every few weeks during spring and summer
• No need in winter
• No need to use routinely

If you forget to use it or if you don't see much visible change in your tree, there is no reason to worry. 

A living memorial

Over time, your tree becomes part of your space. It can provide an ongoing sense of connection thanks to the reason you planted it and because of who it represents. 

With some simple care and attention, it can remain a beautiful, lasting, living tribute for many years to come.