v) Sowing and planting

Direct seeding can be done using a specifically designed direct-seeding machine or by hand-sprinkling the seed into loose soil. There are contractors available who will direct-seed an area, or equipment may be available from your local Landcare group.
If planting tubestock, water the tubes well before planting. This is easily done by placing them in a wheelbarrow half-full of water so they are given a good soak while they are waiting to be planted.
If you have large numbers of tubestock to plant, it is probably worth using a Hamilton tree planter, or similar. This tool makes a hole in the ground exactly the size and shape of the tube, but be careful of rocks. The seedling can then be removed from its tube and dropped into the hole with a minimum of soil disturbance. Handheld tree planters may be available for loan through your local Landcare group.
Very little watering is needed when planting with handheld tree planters, but where the soil is very wet, dry or hard, you will need to use more conventional planting methods.
Position the seedling in the hole with the roots straight down and the stem no deeper in the soil than it was in the tube. Make sure that there are no air pockets around the root ball.
Water the trees immediately after planting. Hardy species will not need to be watered again after this unless there is a drought in the following summer.