Tips for Proper Shrub Planting

Posted on June 21, 2019

With yard cleanups well behind us, many people are now focusing on the curb appeal of their home.  One of the best ways to bring instant gratification to the appearance of your home comes from landscaping.  With the addition of outdoor elements such as walkways, shrubs, and flowers, your home will have the facelift you hoped for.  However, if you’re considering planting, there are several considerations to take into account before grabbing the shovel.  If landscaping in Weston, MA or surrounding areas, here are a few helpful tips to get you on your way.

 

Temperature

Although every plant has its unique requirements for proper growth, there are a few general rules that can be followed.  First, it’s best to plant in cooler temperatures such as the early morning.  This will provide the plant some relief from the shock of hot sun rays and hot soil.  However, if planting during the day is the only option; be sure to provide plenty of water.  Second, timing, not only for the proper time of day but for the weather.  If you can plant a day or two before rain is predicted, you’re ensuring a smoother transition.  Rain will help shrubs to establish their root system.

Digging

Now that you’ve figured out the optimal day and time to plant your new shrubs, it’s time to dig!  When establishing a new plant or shrub, the width and depth of the hole are important as the time of day.  The hole should be twice the width and the depth of the container.  This will allow for the roots to loosen and spread naturally in the ground.  However, when removing the shrub from the container, it’s imperative to take care to keep the root intact.  Once, removed, you can gently shake the root ball to allow for the beginning of the separation to occur.

Mulch

Often overlooked, mulch is key to maintaining moisture.  This is even more important if planting shrubs during the late spring or summer months.  With hot, humid days, your roots will be prone to dry out faster then they would during the early spring or fall.  Once your base has 3-4 inches of mulch built up, you can apply shrub food or fertilizer to further encourage stabilization and growth.

Watering

Ensuring that your shrub maintains moisture is imperative to survival during the first few weeks of planting.  With deep watering, you’ll provide a sufficient base that requires less frequent watering.  This method of watering also helps to establish a sound root system. 

 

New England is known as zone 5.  Whether you choose to plant on your own or utilize a landscaper, there are several varieties that will thrive.  Shrubs such as forsythia, winter heath, and azalea are all common, early spring flowering shrubs.  For more information or assistance on landscaping, contact the experts at Cataldo Landscaping.  Providing excellent landscaping in Weston, MA, for three generations, Cataldo can help bring your yard to life.  Visit them online or call today at (781) 304-8900.

landscaping Weston MA