Question
We just purchased 5 large Pyrimadal arb's in the range of 10'-12'.  In our NW Indiana heavy clay soil, how should these be planted?  The area we want to plant them is a bit low and sometimes damp. We have had problems with evergreens being planted too deep before.  What is the recommended depth of the existing root ball? Is it too late?  Should these be mulched in and planted in the spring? Thanks for your expertise.

Ray

Answer
Ray,

I would reommend putting them in the ground this year and not waiting until the spring. Dig the holes twice the width of the ball and only about 3/4 of the depth. This will stop you from planting them too deeply. I would reommend also using some compost mixed into the soil being returned to the hole to increase the organic matter in the soil.
Before they are put in the hole, make sure to cut the wire basket off of the plants, wire baskets left on the root ball is the number one killer of plants.
After they are place in the hole, remove as much of the burlap as you can, this will ensure that the new tender roots will grow into soil instead of being deflected by the burlap.
After the burlap is removed, scrape away some of the soil on the top of the root ball. Most nurseries pile soil on the tops of the root ballwhen the plants are being dug up. Remove as much soil as needed to see the root flare on the trunk. The root flare is where the roots start.

Mulch the root zone and water until the ground freezes.

Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen