General Planting Instructions:
* Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball or container and almost as deep. Amend the soil by mixing in peat moss, Mix approximately 1/3 amendments to 2/3 existing garden soil. (use more or less depending on the composition of your soil)
* For plants in plastic containers: Tilt the plant on its side, tap the bottom and gently pull the container off. If necessary, cut the container from the plant. Using a sharp knife or pruners, cut 4 or 5 vertical slashes into the rootball. This breaks any patterns of circular root growth.
* Plants in papier-mâché containers: If the plant has been growing in the container for a while so that the roots fill the container, treat the same as a plastic container. However, if the plant appears to be newly potted or does not show signs of a full root mass, leave the plant in the container and merely cut the top to the level of the soil and cut a few holes in the bottom and sides of the pot. It will disintegrate in a few weeks.
* For balled and burlapped plants: Do not remove the burlap or wire cage (if your plant has one). Once the plant is positioned and stabilized in the hole, cut the string or cord at the top of the rootball, removing any nylon string from the hole. Peel back the burlap from the top of the plant, and bend back the sections of the wire cage that may show after planting is completed.
* Place the plant in the hole - Be sure the top of the rootball (crown of the plant) is not too deep. It is best to plant slightly higher than the surrounding soil; planting too deeply can cause the crown to rot and kill the plant. For balled and burlapped plants, be sure to position the plant as you want it and stabilize before peeling back burlap as described above.
* Add any root stimulant now: Follow manufacturer's directions for product.
* Fill in hole: Gradually add the soil / amendment mixture around the plant, tamping it down firmly as you fill the hole. Again, be sure that the soil level does not exceed the original planting depth. Water thoroughly and add more soil if necessary as it settles. * Apply mulch: Spread mulch around the plant to a depth of between 2-3" - this will help to hold in moisture as well as retard weed growth. Be sure to keep mulch at least 2" away from the trunk of the plant. You can create a water retention ring by mounding the mulch higher on the outer edge.
* Stake plant: only if necessary to stabilize larger or loose balled trees.Water regularly: Follow instructions for deep watering 2-3 times a week through the first growing season and through subsequent dry periods until the plant is well established- Remember: Insufficient water during the first season is the number one cause of plant failure.
WATERING TIPS:
The limited root system of your new plant (especially "B&B" plants) will cause it to dry out faster than established plants. Extra attention during the first year will pay off with a healthier, more resilient plant in the future. Water deeply: Allow the water to run slowly so that the soil can absorb the moisture.Use a soaker hose, drip irrigation, or a slow stream from the hose to direct the flow of water to base of the plant without wetting the leaves. Water consistently so the soil is evenly moist. It is time to water when the top inch or two of soil is dry and no rain is expected. After watering, the top 5-6" of soil should be moist to encourage deep root growth and greater long-term drought tolerance. Watering shallowly causes shallow rooted, wilt prone plants.
The best times to water are early in the morning or 2 to 3 hours before sunset. Watering in the heat of the day allows for too much evaporation and may scald foliage. Watering late in the evening when foliage cannot dry encourages mildew and other fungal problems, particularly on roses, phlox, and spirea.
During periods of drought, check soil moisture and water more frequently. Remember that 10-15 minute downpours seldom soak the soil and you may need to water even though it "just rained".
SAVE YOUR RECEIPT: File receipts in your "Home Improvement" file. Landscape additions increase the value of your home the same as other remodeling projects. Also, should your plant fail, the receipt, necessary for credits and returns, will be readily available.