How to plant a tree

Planting Instructions

Preparing the sapling for planting:

A sapling is generally born in a nursery, whether it is that of KKL-JNF or any other. It has been cared for since the day it sprouted. It is sensitive and tender, like a baby. It is important to make sure that the clod of earth surrounding the roots of the sapling does not crumble, and that it retains its moisture so the roots are not exposed to sun or wind.

Planting it:

Make sure the pit is wide enough and deep enough to contain the entire clod of earth surrounding the roots. If necessary, widen or deepen the pit, and make sure there are no rocks in it. Now, place the sapling in the center of the pit, straighten it out, and fill the space around the sapling with earth up to the neck of the root.

Securing it:

Pack the earth around the sapling using both hands, in order to strengthen its hold in the ground and prevent its displacement from the pit.
Planting has been completed! Congratulations! You have planted a young sapling that will grow and develop into a beautiful green tree, if it is treated right…

Planter's Prayer

Heavenly Father

Thou who buildest Zion and Jerusalem
Take pleasure in Thy land
And bestow upon it of Thy goodness
And Thy grace.

Give dew for a blessing
And cause beneficent rains
To fall in their season,
To satiate the mountains of Israel
And her valleys,
And to water thereon
Every plant and tree.

And these saplings
Which we plant before thee this day,
Make deep their roots
And wide their crown
That they may blossom forth in grace
Amongst all the trees in Israel
For good and for beauty.

And strengthen the hands
Of all our brethren
Who toil to revive the sacred soil
And make fruitful its wastes.
Bless, o Lord, their might,
And may the work of their hands
Find favor before Thee.

Look down from
Thy holy habitation,
From heaven,
And bless this land
That it may flow again
With milk and honey.

Amen.