Planting Success: Depth, Drainage, and Root Zone Prep

Proper planting technique ensures long-term plant health. Focus on root zone preparation, correct depth, and container drainage.

Prepare the Root Zone

• Individual holes (trees/shrubs): Don't amend soil—just loosen existing soil.
• Large beds: Mix organic amendments thoroughly into native soil, not layered on top. Creates extensive, well-prepared root zone.

Critical: Planting Depth

Never plant deeper than nursery level. Deep planting kills thousands of plants yearly. The root flare must be visible.

Bare-Root Trees: Don't Prune to "Balance"

Trees self-regulate shoot growth to root capacity. Pruning removes healthy buds and stored energy. Only prune broken limbs to a strong bud. After a season, shape with minimal cuts.

Container Drainage Essentials

• Pots must have drainage holes—gravel layers don't prevent waterlogging; they reduce soil volume and add weight.
• Cover holes with a terracotta shard to retain soil.
• Don't keep saucers full—roots in bottom layer will rot.

Aftercare Tips

• Mist evergreen shrub foliage daily for 2 weeks after planting.
• Use annual climbers to cover trellises while permanent vines establish.
• Protect tender perennials from frost with straw-lined pots.
• For large potted shrubs (box, bay), keep in a plastic liner pot to replant companions without disturbing roots.

Attention to these fundamentals gives plants their best start.