Hi there. I recently moved to new home in western Idaho that has clay soil. I have read lots of ways to plant a small tree in clay soil. They are all different. Now I am more confused than ever! Some say plant deep, some say shallow and wide. Some say add soil amendments, some say do not. Please help clarify what is better. I am no stranger to growing plants but this is stumping me.

Thank You

Plantlvr2 I commented on your other post that asked this question.

Plant - first and foremost is to choose a tree that can grow in your soil. I vote shallow and wide with no amendments.

Shadegardener said: first and foremost is to choose a tree that can grow in your soil.

I don't live in Idaho...

So... I wouldn't know what would survive your winters...

In many parts of the country, there is a clay that is referred to as 'gumbo' clay... and trees grow in it...

starting with a small tree or a seedling definitely improves the likelihood of success... matter of fact, I'd seed plant if at all possible!

Information that would help get better responses...

what kind of trees you have in mind?
fruit trees?

conifers?

there are government agencies created to help american gardeners choose good varieties and plant them in the most likely way to succeed....

try the extension service:
https://www.uidaho.edu/extensi...

My trees are 2- 5 gallon rose of Sharon tree form. Thank You for all your answers. I will try to plant them more shallow but wide. Wish me luck!

Plantlvr2 said:My trees are 2- 5 gallon rose of Sharon tree form. Thank You for all your answers. I will try to plant them more shallow but wide. Wish me luck!

We have an acidic clay and several rose of sharon. They do nicely in clay. The problem with real clay is that any soil digging creates a bowl that holds water. I like to dig deep, amend and fertilize, and plant shallow so the plant can find it later without drowning in the interim. Call it a ploy to create drainage if you will.