- Dig the planting hole. The hole should be dug at a depth so that 1/8 of the rootball will sit above the ground. Planting trees and shrubs too deep is a major cause of plant death. The hole should be 12″ wider than the rootball for shrubs and 18″ wider than the rootball for trees
- Prepare the soil mixture. Mix one shovelful of compost with every three shovelfuls of dirt removed from the hole.
- If the plant is in a pot: Remove the plant carefully from its pot by laying it on its side and lightly tapping the sides of the container. Always handle the plant by its rootball.Use a sharp knife to make 4 slits down the sides of the rootball. This will help the root system to grow into the existing soil.
- If the plant is in a burlaped rootball: Roll the plant into the hole. Never drop the rootball because it may damage the roots. Cut the rope and burlap away from the top of the rootball after the plant is in the hole. Make sure the plant is standing straight. Fill the hole with the soil mixture. Pack down the soil as the hole is being filled. Do not put soil on top of the rootball.
- Mulch around the base of the plant. The mulch should be 2-3″ deep. Do not pile mulch around the trunk (like a teepee or volcano).
- To stake a tree: Hammer a stake into the ground about 6″ beyond the edge of the hole. Attach biodegradable rope tightly around the stake and loosely around the trunk. Remove the stakes in 6 months or in 12 months if the location is windy.
- Water the plant thoroughly following our instructions.
