Handling

Handle your plant with care by grasping the container or root ball. To avoid root damage, do not lift shrubs by their branches, drag trees by their trunk or drop a root ball.  Plant as soon as possible. If you must delay planting, keep container or root ball well watered (daily) to keep the roots from drying out. If possible, keep the plant in shade until planted.

 Planting

 Dig A Hole

Dig a hole 2-8" less than the soil depth as the root ball or container and 24-48" wider than the root ball or container. We strongly encourage planting high due to our heavy soils and to prevent the roots from becoming water logged.

 Remove the Container and Position Plant

If grown in a plastic pot, you should be able to gently grasp the plant by the base and pull it out of its container. If the soil appears to be breaking apart, then cut the bottom from the pot and set the bottomless plant and pot into the hole. Then cut the side of the pot and gently remove it. Burlapped root balls should be gently guided into the planting hole.  Removal of burlap and twine is not necessary nor suggested unless made of nylon.

Improved Backfill

Mix 1/4 topsoil, 1/4 Gardener's Compost, and 1/2 existing soil from hole as backfill. The use of soil amendments is beneficial to plant growth.  Fill hole 3/4 full with improved backfill. Slowly fill the hole with water, saturating the root ball and backfill, and allow the soil to settle aroudn the root ball.  After the water has soaked in, fill the remainder of the hole with backfill misture even with the original grade. Do not tamp the soil.  Create a slight watering dish bt leaving ar ing of soil at the edge of the planting hole.

 Allow for Drainage

If planting in rich, good soil or in sandy soil, drainage should not be a problem.  The technique described above is available in our store along with diagrams. If soil is a heavy clay base, use an elevated planting technique. This technique is also available in our store in a pamphlet form with diagrams.  With a heavy clay base, dig the hole wider and less deep.

Mulch the Planting Site

A 2-3" layer of bark mulch will reduce water loss, weed competition, soil compaction mower injury and soil erosion.  Mulch helps moderate soil temperature to create a cool, moist condition that roots require.  Avoid piling mulch up on the trunk or stems.  Taper mulch to a thin layer at the truck or stems.

Do Not Prune

Less is better. Remove any broken or injured branches.  Otherwise, leave as many leaves as possible to provide energy for the development of roots, branches and buds.

Promote Root Growth

We strongly encourage fertilizing new plants.  Fertilome Root Stimulator is a superior non-organic fertilizer.  Dilute and apply according to directions.  An alternative organic approach is Correct Planting Routine, a complete food source for mycorrhizal establishment and growth. Apply according to directions and avoid use in conjunction with non-orgainc fertilizers or fungicides.

 Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Holly, and Bayberry require addtional site preparation. Ask for specific instructions for your plant.

Watering After Planting

It is critical that new plantings get sufficient, but not excessive, water.  lay the nozzle of the hose at the base of the plant and allow water to trickle out slowly, filling the watering dish. Continur watering until the water stops entering the soil at a quick rate and starts forming a pool.

Watering

Water requirements depend on your plants specific needs, soil conditions and the weather.  In general, plan on watering 1-2 times per week in cooler weather and2-4 times per week in summer heat. Small container grown plants will require more frequent watering than balled and burlapped plants.

Check the soil moisture regularly by feeling it or use a probe or stick. Roots need to breathe. Constantly saturated soil is as dangerous to your plant as insufficient water. Common sense and frequent checking are essential.

Water Slowly. Allow water to soak in, rather than run off. Depending on soil tpye, this could take up to an hour for water to reach the roots.  Be consistent and adapt watering to rainfall and soil conditions.  Allow the soil to dry between watering so some air can penetrate the root area.  Roots, like leaves, need oxygen.  Continuous over watering will drown plants.  A soaker hose is the best method to effectively get moisture to all of a plant's roots. Weave the hose around your plants.  Properly watered plants are healthier and less prone to disease and pest problems.  Again how much and how often depends on the weather, soil and your plants.

 Stop in and pick up your copy of our planting and watering guide at our Garden Center.