Trees, Shrubs and Flowering Shrubs

Planting Your New Tree/Shrub/Flowering Shrub

 Dig a hole 3 to 4 times wider than the container.

The hole should have sloping sides like a saucer to allow for proper root growth.

 Carefully remove the tree from the container keeping the soil around the roots intact.

It helps to tap the outside of the container to loosen the edge. Carefully slide the tree from the container. Don't yank the tree out of the container as this can separate the roots from the tree.

 Sometimes containerized trees become root-bound or the roots look like they're about to circle the root ball.

If your tree is like this, cut an X across the bottom of the root ball and four vertical slices along the sides of the root ball with a sharp knife.

 Set the tree in the middle of the hole. Avoid planting the tree too deep.

If the root collar sits below the top of the hole, compact some soil under the tree so that the root flare at the base of the trunk is slightly above ground level. Using some soil, secure the tree in a straight position, then fill and firmly pack the hole with the original soil, making sure there aren't any air pockets. Keep backfilling until the soil is just below the root collar.

 Create a water-holding basin around the hole and give the tree a good watering.

After the water has soaked in, spread protective mulch 2–4 inches deep in a 3-foot diameter area around the base of the tree, but not touching the trunk.

 The soil and mulch around your trees should be kept moist but not soggy.

During dry weather, generously water the tree every 7 to 10 days during the first year. Water slowly at the dripline.

 Remove any tags and labels from the tree as these will affect the tree as it grows.

You may need to prune any broken or dead branches. 

 After they are established you can use a typical garden fertilizer to improve growth. (Typically 20-10-20)

 

Use plenty of water to ensure your new tree has plenty of moisture. When deciding to plant multiple trees a good rule of thumb is to keep the spacing at 15 feet so they have plenty of room to expand, shrubs spacing can vary by type. Due to shipping shock some leaves may show signs of wilting, do not worry. They will come back and sprout new leaves. 

Please be patient! Enjoy.

*November - May buyers: