How to Use an Air-Spade to Create a Tree Planting Bed
- 1). Wet the entire planting area with a garden hose until the soil is saturated, but not muddy. This makes it easier for the Air-Spade to dig through and reduces dust.
- 2). Attach the Air-Spade to a compressor that has a pressure rating of between 175 to 185 standard cubic feet per minute (scfm). To attach the Air-Spade, locate the black coupler at the end opposite from the nozzle. Apply 1/2 teaspoon of anti-seize liquid to the threads and screw it onto the compressor hose.
- 3). Put on safety goggles, work gloves and insert ear plugs before turning on the compressor or Air-Spade.
- 4). Turn on the compressor and open the air valve using the manufacturer's instructions. Most compressors have a toggle switch that you push into position.
- 5). Point the Air-Spade nozzle away from people and objects and squeeze the trigger on the handle. Look at the pressure dial located at the top of the handle and make sure the needle is between the 5.5 and the 6.9 lines. Release the trigger.
- 6). Position the nozzle perpendicular to the ground with the tip approximately 1 inch off the ground. Press the trigger and begin moving the device along the planting area, covering at least 1 to 2 feet per second. If the soil is compacted clay, you may need to slow the rate you move it. Continue until the top 2 to 3 inches of soil is loosened over the entire area.
- 7). Place the nozzle of the Air-Spade where you want to create a hole for one of the trees. Press the trigger and slowly push the device into the soil until you have a hole approximately 12 inches deep.
- 8). Continue creating additional holes, spacing each at least 5 to 6 feet apart or more to allow for the mature tree size.
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