Plant Selection
The first step in successful planting should be selecting the proper plant for the area in which you intend to plant.
Water requirements Some plants like to be grown in dry location some thrive in wet areas and some are adaptable to a wide range of conditions.
Sun requirements How much sun does the area you are planting receive. Full sun, partial sun or shade.
Plant size Consider the mature size of the plant when selecting it for your landscape.
Soil improvement
Soil conditions are critical to the long life of your new plant. Unfortunately most soil is less than ideal. Incorporating certain products at the time of planting will improve your soil and help your new plant survive.
1. Organic material is the best way to improve any soil. It breaks down clay soils to improve drainage and in sandy soil it helps to retain water. It also provides nutrients to the plant. We recommend Gard'n-wise cotton boll compost.
2. Use MYKE at the time of planting. Mycorrizzhizal fungi (MYKE) have occurred naturally in the soil for millions of years. Unfortunately in soil where construction, excessive fertilization or pesticide use has occurred the mycorrirrhial content has greatly diminished. Mycorrizzhizal fungi forms a mutualistic relationship with a plants root system to create a network that increases the absorption of water and nutrients. This in turn enhances the growth and rapid development of roots and plants while reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides . Use myke and receive an additional 4 year warranty on trees and shrubs (see warranty for details)
3. Use Ferti-lome Root Stimulator when planting. It Encourages early root development and a stronger root system
How to plant
1. Dig a hole 6-8 inches larger than the root-ball and deep enough to keep the plants soil level slightly higher than the surrounding soil.
2. For balled and burlapped plants, leave the burlap and wire basket on the root-ball but cut any twine that is around the trunk, after placing the plant in its hole. For plants in containers, carefully remove the plant from the pot, making sure not to disturb the root system.
3. Place the plant in the hole and make sure that it is straight.
4. Apply MYKE tree and shrub growth supplement, following the recommendations on the package. New roots must be in contact with the MYKE growth supplement, so make sure and spread it around the root ball.
5. Backfill around the root ball with a mixture of Cotton Boll Compost and soil. In heavy clay soil, use 1/3 compost to 2/3 soil. In sandy soils mix the cotton boll and soil equally, Continue to fill the hole with the compost soil mixture. Make sure that there are no air pockets by firmly packing and watering in the soil.
6. To promote new root growth, water the newly planted tree or shrub with a mixture of Fertilome Root Stimulator and water, mixed according to label directions. Use the root stimulator two more times, waiting 10 days between applications.
7. It is good idea to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree or shrub. Not only does this look good it helps to conserve water.
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