Because most shrubs grow quickly, you can count on them for almost an immediate effect on your landscape plan. Plant and care for them properly and most shrubs will reach a mature size in three to five years.
In a new landscape, choose large shrubs for an immediate effect in key areas such as the entrance to your home. Use smaller, more economical plants in areas such as distant beds where size is not as important from the start.
When to Plant Shrubs
:
Early spring is the best time to plant your shrubs. Plant as soon as the soil is thawed or dry enough to be worked with. If you live in an area where the ground does not freeze during the winter, it is best to plant your shrubs in the fall. The mixture of warm soil and cool air slows top growth early on, allowing your shrub roots to become better established and grow deep.
Healthy Soils
:
Add organic soil amendments (Bumper Crop® Organic Soil Amendment is our choice for best results
undefined
undefined) throughout the entire bed at planting. Work a two to three inch layer of amendments into the top eight inches of your soil.
Plant Depth
:
Dig a hole the same depth as the root ball, but two times its width. This added width allows the roots to spread laterally and offers a softer soil base for early growth. Set plants so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil.
Watering Shrubs
:
Always water the shrub the day before you plant to be sure the root ball is moist and healthy. After planting, water your shrubs regularly during the first year to ensure the roots are well established and grow to their potential. Shrubs with thin, fibrous roots such as azaleas will dry out quickly and suffer dying branches if stressed by drought.
Fertilizer
:
Fertilize at the beginning of the growing season, especially while the plant matures during the first three to five years. For best results, use a timed-release product that feeds gradually for three, six or nine months.
Mulch : To reduce weeds, conserve moisture and insulate the soil around shrubs, use one to two inches of bark or pine needles as organic mulch for your shrubs. Renew mulch in fall if needed and be sure to avoid piling mulch next to the base of your plants