Essential Spring Planting Tips for Trees and Shrubs

Essential Spring Planting Tips for Trees and Shrubs

Spring brings a rush of gardening enthusiasm. To turn that energy into thriving plants, follow these fundamental planting practices for balled-and-burlapped (B&B) and container-grown specimens.

Handling Balled-and-Burlapped Plants

Inspect the root ball carefully. If twine secures the burlap, cut and remove it—especially any nylon twine around the stem, which can girdle and kill the plant years later. If the plant has been re-burlapped, check between layers for hidden nylon strings. Genuine burlap rots quickly and can stay; synthetic burlap should be loosened around the stem and sliced vertically to allow root penetration.

Planting in Clay Soil

Heavy clay is a common challenge. The best solution: raise the planting bed at least 8 inches with good topsoil. If that's not possible, plant the root ball 2–3 inches above grade and mound soil over it. Avoid the common advice to dig a wide hole and backfill with loose organic matter—in clay, this creates a "bathtub" that holds water and suffocates roots. Instead, backfill with the native clay soil you removed; it acts as a dam to keep excess water away from the root ball.

Planting Depth Is Critical

Never plant deeper than the plant grew in the nursery. Planting too deep kills thousands of plants each year. The root flare should be visible at the soil surface.

Staking New Trees

Stake newly planted trees to prevent wind rocking, which hinders root establishment. Use a wooden stake, fence post, or ½-inch electrical conduit. Secure with a single wrap of duct tape; the sun will degrade the adhesive in 6–12 months, preventing girdling.

Container-Grown Plants

Before removing the container, check drainage holes for circling roots and trim them. Turn the pot upside down, support the root mass, and shake gently. If roots circle the root ball, make three vertical slices with a knife or tease them apart with your fingers to encourage outward growth.

Skip the Additives

Good topsoil is the real secret. Fertilizers, bone meal, and peat moss are often unnecessary and can do more harm than good. Focus on planting in rich, well-drained topsoil and let the plants establish naturally.