Exceptional Trees. Planted for Life.

A great tree is only the beginning. The Earth People Planting Standard™ is our site-specific approach to establishing trees for long-term health in Southern California. We evaluate the tree, root system, soil, drainage, irrigation, exposure and landscape before deciding what the planting actually needs.

1. Right Tree, Right Place

We consider mature size, sun, coastal exposure, heat, wind, drainage, irrigation and the role the tree needs to play in the landscape.

2. Root & Root-Flare Inspection

Before planting, we inspect the root system and establish the correct planting height. Trees should not be buried too deeply.

3. Site-Specific Planting

The planting hole, backfill and surrounding grade are handled according to the site's actual soil and drainage conditions rather than using a one-size-fits-all recipe.

4. Living Soil & Root-Zone Options

Where appropriate, we can incorporate biological and organic establishment inputs such as worm castings, compost/topdress and mycorrhizal inoculant. These are prescribed based on the tree and site rather than automatically added to every planting.

5. Irrigation Built for Establishment

We evaluate existing irrigation and can modify or install drip, emitters, bubblers or other appropriate root-zone watering. The goal is even, deep establishment watering that can be adjusted as the root system expands.

6. Organic Mulch Ring

Mulch helps moderate soil temperature and moisture and supports the soil ecosystem. We keep mulch away from direct contact with the trunk and root flare.

7. Support Only When Needed

Staking and support are used when site conditions or tree structure require them, with the goal of allowing the trunk and root system to establish naturally.

8. Organic Establishment Care

Depending on the tree and season, ongoing care may include irrigation adjustments, soil-health treatments, organic nutrition, preventative organic IPM, foliar or soil drenches, pruning guidance and establishment inspections.

Build Your Planting

Available upgrades may include professional planting, worm castings, mycorrhizae when appropriate, compost/topdress, organic mulch, new irrigation, irrigation modification, deep-watering setup, staking or trellising, protection, low-voltage tree lighting and ongoing establishment care.

Planting + Care

For customers who want us to manage establishment, Earth People LandCare can pair installation with follow-up care so the tree's irrigation, soil health and seasonal needs continue to be monitored after planting day.

Earth People LandCare — Southern California tree sourcing, organic planting and long-term care.