Helpful Hints
Planting and Care Tips
- Dig a hole at least twice the width of the root ball, and as deep as the height of the root ball. Save the soil and mix with compost, peat and/or sand and a slow release fertilizer.
- If the plant is in a plastic pot, turn it its side and squeeze the pot to loosen the root and soil. Grasp the plant from just above the soil to remove. If potbound, cut the pot off.
- Score the sides and bottom of the roots. If pot-bound, "butterfly" the root ball by slicing ½ way up from bottom at 4" intervals. Spread out root mass.
- Place the plant in the hole. If the plant is balled in burlap, cut ties and remove the top of the burlap.
- Fill the hole with prepared soil and gently firm to eliminate air pockets.
- Grade the remainder of the soil so water will drain toward the trunk. Be sure not to build up soil around the trunk, which would encourage it to rot.
- Apply water slowly to ensure the root ball gets wet. In temperatures above 80 degrees it may be necessary to water on a daily basis. Do not keep the soil saturated; be sure to allow the soil to dry moderately between watering. New plantings need extra attention until established, about one year.
- Remove any tags or ties from the trunk and branches. It may be a good idea to save the information tags for your own reference.
- A two to three inch layer of mulch will help to retain moisture, keep the soil cool, and reduce the development of weeds. Remember to be careful not to build up against the trunk.
- Fertilize during the spring and summer months.
- Enjoy and feel free to contact our plant care hotline with any questions.
Gardening and Plant Information
These helpful links contain useful gardeing information.
This site can help you decide what kind of tree will grow the best under various conditions. Such as, high wind, shade, wet/dry soil etc. Includes images, mature size and zone.
Provides information, with images, about plants, turf, insects & diseases, and more.
General Gardening Info.
Trouble with Deer?
Useful information for people who garden where Deer feed.
The Ohio Landscape Association gives a list of recommended deer resistant plants for our area & a list of plants to avoid.
OSU Extension provides a list of drought & deer resistant plants