Planting Instructions for 

Trees and Shrubs

-Dig a hole at least twice as wide and only as deep as the root ball.  Amendments like peat moss or compost can be incorporated into the existing soil.  

-If your plant has been grown in a pot, remove the plant from its container.  If you have a field grown plant with a root zone wrapped in burlap leave the burlap in place.  Metal caging can also be left on the root ball when planting.

-Carefully transport your plant into the prepared hole. 

-Straighten your plant in the hole making sure the root zone is 1-2” above grade. Burlap on the root ball will decompose over time so leave the fabric in place around the roots.

-Backfill with the removed soil mix and pack firmly.  Once securely in the hole, carefully cut any string tied around the stem.  Tamp the soil gently to fill any large air spaces.  If your plant is on a slope, create a ring of soil to prevent water from running off the soil surface without soaking in.  

-Water thoroughly with a slow soaking to settle the soil and prevent air pockets.  

-Apply a 2” layer of mulch keeping an open space around the trunk.  DO NOT mound the mulch around the trunk.

Plant Care

Watering:

-A thorough soaking once or twice a week encourages deep root growth and is much better than frequent light watering.  Your lawn sprinkler system is not designed to deeply water new plantings.  

-Lay a hose at the base of the trunk and turn the hose on a slow trickle.  If the water is running off the surface, turn the hose down so the water has a chance to soak in.  Keep the water on for at least 30 minutes to an hour per plant, depending on the size of the root ball.  The water needs to reach the bottom roots on the root ball.

-Repeat this process once or twice a week.  Don’t rely on Mother Nature because rainfall can be deceiving due to runoff.  Even after a hard rain, water may not have penetrated the mulch layer.

Fertilizing:

-Your new plants should not be given any fertilizer the first year.  Mild root stimulants like mycorrhizae or bone meal can be used.  Do not use an all purpose fertilizer until the second year your plant is in the ground.  Be sure to ask a professional about which fertilizers are best to apply to your specific plant(s).


Insects and diseases:

If you see holes or brown leaves/needles on your plant, this could be a sign of an insect or disease on your plant.  If you suspect an issue, bring in a picture along with a leaf or stem sample in a plastic bag so we can determine what is wrong.