Care of Trees and Shrubs

FERTILIZING:

Only slow release or organic fertilizer should be mixed into the planting area or be applied on the soil surface in order to avoid injury to roots.  Holly-tone (for acid-loving plants), Plant-tone, Plant-O-Ganic 8-8-8, cottonseed meal, and bone meal are excellent examples.  Apply per label instructions or consult your salesperson.

WATERING:

Water is a critical factor to the successful establishment of landscape plants.  Too much or too little water can drastically affect root system growth in newly planted material.  Trees and shrubs should be monitored regularly and watered, if necessary, at least once a week.  Becasue the growing medium used in containers tends to dry out rapidly, these plants need to be checked for moisture more frequently and should be watered daily until planted.  A deep soaking around the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage, is preferable to several light waterings.  Generally speaking, rainfall and on-site irrigation systems should not be relied upon to provide adequate moisture during the first 2-3 years.

STAKING:

Staking at the time of planting may not be necessary for all trees.  Factors such as stability of the rootball, trunk size and strength, direction of prevailing winds, canopy size and density should all be considered.  Stakes should be placed in three directions, bracing the tree as low as possible to keep it stable, while allowing the top to sway slightly.  In most instances, stakes should be removed after one year.  We have complete staking kits available for purchase.

MULCHING:

Mulching is a cultural practice that can be of benefit in the landscape when done correctly.  Mulching will reduce weeds, moderate soil temperatures, conserve soil moisture in the root zone and add an aesthetic quality to the landscape.  Improper mulching can impair plant health and lead to the decline of the plant material.  Mulch should be placed in a wide band, approximately 3 times the diameter of the rootball over the root zone and no more than 2-3" deep, tapering to, but not touching the trunk.  Mulch piled up against the trunk may cause rotting of the bark and can create entry points for insects or disease organisms.  Field mice may also inhabit deep mulch and feed on the bark.