Tree and Shrub Planting Guide
Follow these simple tree and shrub planting guidelines to help your plants establish quickly.
PLANTING
Thoroughly water root ball in container before planting. Never plant a dry plant. Gently pull apart roots at bottom of root ball; make 3 vertical cuts on root ball deep enough to cuts roots growing in a circular manner; Use pruners to cut any thicker, woody roots that are circling. This encourages the plant to send out roots into the surrounding soil. It will also prevent them from girdling the trunk and slowing the flow of nutrients and water.
Dig hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball but not deeper; Plant to the same depth of the soil line in the container or slightly higher Crown rot/fungal diseases can happen if water sits on the crown of the plant.
Soil Amendments: We recommend MOBOT compost mixed in with the native soil at a ratio of 1 part compost/4 parts soil. DO NOT USE POTTING SOIL This is a waste of money and does nothing to help the plant get established.
Dig hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball but not deeper; Plant to the same depth of the soil line in the container or slightly higher Crown rot/fungal diseases can happen if water sits on the crown of the plant.
Soil Amendments: We recommend MOBOT compost mixed in with the native soil at a ratio of 1 part compost/4 parts soil. DO NOT USE POTTING SOIL This is a waste of money and does nothing to help the plant get established.
FERTILIZING
We recommend using Espoma “Organic Biotone Starter”. Sprinkle recommended dosage into planting hole (not on top of soil). Remember, more is not better when using fertilizer. Follow up later in the season with Espoma Plant Tone. For acid loving plants: hydrangea, azalea, rhododendron, evergreens, etc. we recommend using soil sulfur twice a year the first year (once yearly after that) to provide some acid. Our soil is more alkaline.
WATERING
Turn hose on to 1/2 -1/3 strength. Set at base of plant for approximately 6 minutes for every foot of height. For example: a 4’ shrub should be watered for at least 24 minutes. This will thoroughly saturate the roots and surrounding area. Repeat approximately every 4-6 days. Keep a watchful eye on the plant-this is only a general guideline. Some plants are thirstier and will require water sooner. If your plant should dry out (the leaves will wilt/hang and then turn brown on the ends) you aren’t watering enough. But, this doesn’t mean your plant has died. Break a twig and if it bends the tree/shrub still has life in it. The new leaves next spring will be fine.
MULCHING
A 1” layer of mulch covering the root zone will help conserve moisture. Do not allow the mulch to touch the plant stems or trunk as this can cause disease.
TREE/SHRUB GUARANTEE
Shrubs/Trees guaranteed for 50% of purchase price for 1 year following purchase. No guarantee on discounted items. Guarantee void due to lack of maintenance, acts of God, or on items that have not been planted. One time replacement only. Sales Receipt and perished plant required. Store credit issued-no cash or credit card refunds.
WE DO NOT GUARANTEE
Dogwoods, Perennials, Roses, Herbs, Vegetables, Annuals or discounted items