First-Year Care Calendar for New Landscape Plants in Illinois

Fertilizing and Pruning Schedule for a Mixed New Planting

Newly planted boxwood, burning bush, dwarf Alberta spruce, weeping cherry, and golden cypress likely received starter fertilizer at planting. No further feeding until spring growth begins.

Spring (At Bud Break)

• Apply general liquid fertilizer.
• Mulch with compost or leaf mold.

Watering

Water deeply in evening during dry spells the first year. Established plants become self-sufficient.

Pruning Guide

• Boxwood: Summer shear for shape.
• Burning bush (Dictamnus): Remove spent flower spikes; may die back in fall.
• Alberta spruce: No pruning needed.
• Weeping cherry: Late winter/early spring—remove damaged/crossing branches.
• Golden cypress: Light spring trim; never cut into old wood.