Preparing to Plant
Feed / Water / Care
Preparing to Plant
- Choose the Right Location: Ensure the new location has the appropriate sunlight, soil type, and space for the plant to grow.
- Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the shrub or tree. The sides of the hole should be rough to encourage root penetration.
- Amend the Soil: Mix in compost or organic matter with the existing soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.
Container Removal
Feed / Water / Care
Preparing to Plant
- Water the Plant: Water the plant in its current container thoroughly a few hours before transplanting to reduce stress.
- Loosen the Plant: Gently tap the sides of the container to loosen the soil and roots.
- Remove the Plant: Carefully slide the plant out of the container, supporting the root ball to prevent it from breaking apart.
Planting
Feed / Water / Care
Feed / Water / Care
- Position the Plant: Place the shrub or tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil by 1 inch. We typically add a layer of small pine nugget/ mulch at the base to help retain moisture for the roots.
- Backfill the Hole: Fill the hole with the amended soil, gently firming it around the root ball to eliminate air pockets.
- Create a Water Basin: Form a shallow basin around the base of the plant to help retain water.
Feed / Water / Care
Feed / Water / Care
Feed / Water / Care
- Initial Watering: Water the plant thoroughly immediately after planting, filling the basin to ensure deep watering.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent rot.
- Feeding: After a few weeks, you can start feeding the plant with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth.
- Watering Schedule:
- Week 1: water everyday.
- Week 2: water every other day.
- Week 3: water every two days.
- Week 4: gradually reduce the frequency to once a week, adjusting based on weather conditions.
Enhance Plant Success: Using Fertilizer
When planting trees and shrubs in Central Florida, it's beneficial to use a starter fertilizer to promote healthy root development and establishment. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio such as 10-10-10 provides essential nutrients like Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) in equal amounts.
- Nitrogen (N) supports initial growth and green foliage
- Phosphorus (P) aids in root development and flower production
- Potassium (K) enhances overall plant health and resilience
It's generally recommended to fertilize trees and shrubs twice a year: once in Early Spring (around March) and again in Late Fall (around November). However, it's important to follow specific plant needs and soil test results to avoid over-fertilization.
Controlled-release fertilizer usually comes in granular form and is often recommended for its gradual nutrient release. You can purchase fertilizers at ACE Hardware, Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, and/or online.
Coming Soon...
We will soon offer our special blend fertilizer that is particular to Central Florida's soil composition.