2 Step Planting Instructions

 
 

  1. Dig the hole as described below; the hole should be WIDE and SHALLOW. Make sure that once the plant is in the hole, the TRUNK FLARE is above ground level.  The TRUNK FLARE should be 2-4” above the existing soil line.

 

DEPTH OF HOLE

Trees: Deep enough to allow the top of root ball to be 2-4” above ground level.

Shrubs: Allow the top of root ball to be 1-2” above ground level.

Perennials: Allow the top of root ball to be 1” above ground level.

Mulching Image

Mulching Image

WIDTH OF HOLE

Trees: Allow a 12” min* space between the root ball and the edge of the hole. 

Shrubs: Allow a 6” min* space between the root ball and the edge of the hole. 

Perennials: Allow a 4” min* space between the root mass and the edge of the hole.

* Ideally the hole should be at least 2x the width of the root ball.

 

2. Remove the plant from the container, score the root ball on 4 sides with a knife, and gently place it in the hole

AND/OR for balled and burlapped items:

  • Once you have carefully placed the tree in the hole, make sure it is standing straight and back fill slightly to hold it in position. 

  • Cut and remove: All rope tied to the trunk, all plastic, and the top of the wire basket and burlap.  

Back fill the planting hole with a proper mix of soil. Water once half full and after filling to compact soil.

  • Soil mixture: 1/3 of any of the following: Compost, Tree and Shrub Mix, Humus, or Peat Moss ALONG WITH  2/3 of the existing soil that came out of the hole.