You have just cleared an area to be planted. You have spent hours amending the soil and grading the new planting space. All plants have been selected and purchased. What is the next step? Set those plants out according to your planting plan or planting sketch before the shovel every makes contact with the soil. This sequence of setting the plants out for this space as well as the planting technique is important. It allows you to organize your thoughts and process prior to planting so plant placement can be reviewed and fine-tuned. This should save you time.

Start with the TREES
It is recommended to place the trees or tall shrubs first. They form the larger framework. There are several schools of thought about amending soil where trees are going to be planted. At this time it is not recommended to add amendments in the pit (hole) when planting the tree. Trees are very long lived with an extensive root system. They need to adjust to the native soil. Hence, it is very important to select trees that match the conditions of the native soil. Staking a tree is only suggested if the tree is in a high traffic area, if vandalism might be a problem or at a very windy site. Staking should be removed one to two years after the tree is planted. This allows the tree to send roots out as needed to support itself in the conditions presented at the site.

Trees often have roots in wrapped burlap. There is twine around the crown of the tree holding the burlap in place. Make sure you unwrap and remove the twine from around the crown of the tree once it is set into the hole. Once the tree is set remove the burlap. Some trees are planted in peat pots. It is important to check the root system of any tree before planting to make sure roots are not circling around the burlap or the peat pot. Spread them out once the tree is placed.

Now the SHRUBS

Next place the shrubs. They form the next layer of framework. Make sure to leave enough space between the shrubs so they can reach their mature size. If you are not sure what that size is, read the tag or look this information up in a gardening book. It is appropriate to amend the pit when planting shrubs. Roots should be teased, untangled and in some cases trimmed to encourage roots to spread. This is particularly true if the plants have become root bound in the container.

Last, but not least, set out the perennials or annuals. These plants help to make the spaces between the shrubs look full. The annuals only last one year. The perennials will return, but can be easily moved as the shrubs grow larger and fill in. Handle soil amendments and roots as with shrubs.

Care needs to be taken in regards to the height placement of plants to be installed. It is extremely important that the existing soil level and match the level in the container. If you are planning on adding a mulch or top dressing, it is wise to raise the crown of the plant a bit so you do not choke the area around the crown. In the diagram, see how the mulch tapers near the crown? This needs to be considered when any mulch or top dressing is applied in the future. Once the plant is set and amended soil is used to back fill, compact this soil so no air pockets remain. Keeping your new garden well water, especially in the dry summer season is the next step in helping your garden grow.

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