It's been a common experience that many individuals using native plants would not have information on the processes of planting and accessibility of the equipment used for planting native plants in Alberta. So I have collected a list of the tips that will help you handle your planting materials along with advices on seeding techniques and various gears for planting seeds.
It's unnecessary to describe how significant trees are for our surroundings and for the long lasting beauty of nature. Growing trees may seem easy, but it takes more than just digging a hole and planting the tree in it. For the appropriate planting of trees, some fundamental points should be considered.
You Can't Plant Trees of all types in any season of the year
Its important to select the proper time and season that's suitable for the plants to grow. Summers are not the best months to think about growing any plant as the crouching heat could damage the plant. The best time to plant trees is either early spring or Fall. Avoid the season of late spring as well as the heat may have taken its troll by that time.
Digging the hole to support roots
The hole should be two to three times the width of the root ball and dug as deep as the root ball. Use a shovel or a spade that should loosens up the ground inside the hole. The root to grow outwards into the ground is assisted by this additional space in the width. The hole should have a central high (1/4 to 1/2 inch) region and deeper border exterior to prevent central pooling of water which may damage the roots.
Put the Plant in the Hole prepared for it
You must be thinking now - what's the big thing in doing that. But I must tell you these little things that you take care off while planting your tree may give you the actual results on how good you can expect your tree to grow. So for the small tree is fairly simple to put the plant upside down out of the pot and in the hole. But in case of bigger trees you have to make sure that maximum mud is spread around the roots so that movement can be avoided that may get air into contact with the roots which can in turn get dried up.
Placing the tree
Trees should be placed carefully and gently into the hole. Hold the plant by the root ball always and never by the trunk. Once its in the hole make sure you have placed it right. Check neither the crown is in the hole nor any part of the root is exposed. Match the level of the crown with the level of the soil while filling the hole. Settle the hole filling it with soil and water simultaneously so that it doesn't form any air pockets.
Use of Mulch and Compost
Well we all know what mulch and compost are and why these mixtures are added to the soil. If you are not an agriculturist you may never know what type of soil does you garden has. If it's not an enriched soil, mulch and compost or composted manure may be added so that this organic mixture enhances the uptake of soil nutrients. Add 1 part of compost to 3 parts of soil.
The above mentioned recommendations must be followed while planting native plants in Alberta or if you are looking for reclamation in Alberta. Regular watering is required while the plant grows depending upon the climate of the area for that first couple of years. This facilitates deeper roots. Some pruning work of the damaged roots is also necessary during the preliminary growth period.