"Alan Gould" wrote in message
...
In article , Cat
writes

I take it heeling means firming around the rootball with my heel after
planting?

My understanding of 'heeling in' is a temporary measure of holding a
tree, shrub or perennial plant while it is waiting to be permanently
planted. The plant is placed into a shallow hole, the root-ball is
covered with soil which is firmed down with the heel, then it is given
plenty of water and hopefully priority in the planting programme.
--
Alan & Joan Gould - North Lincs.
Hi Alan,

You are right that the term 'heeling in' is used to store whips, saplings,
shrubs and small trees in a shallow trench, until ready for planting. See
Tree Council for a full definition:
http://www.treecouncil.org.uk/info/packng2.html. I meant it in the context
of firming the soil around the roots with your heel, in the planting hole,
which is (IMO) still valid.

Cheers

Nick
http://www.ukgardening.co.uk