May 5, 2014

How Do I Establish a Tree or Shrub

Establishment means the tree or shrub will live indefinitely without the need for human help. Human help usually takes the form of fertilizer or water. Once a plant reaches establishment, it can get both on it’s own.

This holly will need TLC for two years to reach full establishment

This holly will need TLC for two years to reach full establishment

Establishment means the tree or shrub will live until it’s killed by old age, a lightning strike, exceptional drought, or a human error like a chain behind a pickup truck.

Right Plant in the Right Place

To establish a plant properly, first plant it in the right place. That means it’s planted where the sun exposure is correct, the climate is ideal, and the water hose isn’t too far away. More people kill plants this way than any other reason. If you’re unsure whether your prospective plant will be put in the right place, leave me a comment below.

Fertilize Correctly

For the first two years after a tree or shrub is planted, it will need human help establishing. Fertilize with compost, organic, or inorganic fertilizer. This encourages the plant to make new roots into the surrounding soil and speed up growth. When the tree or shrub is freshly planted, it’s roots will be near the edge of the branches. Spread the fertilizer in a ring shape. Always follow the directions on the bag. Do not overfertilize, because this can harm the new plant.

Soak, then Allow to Dry

Water when appropriate. When the soil is dry surrounding the roots, irrigate by soaking. Don’t spray the stems and leaves. This does nothing over the long term. Soak the plant, then allow it to dry. Repeat. This encourages roots to grow away from the base and speed establishment. Keep the soil moist, but well drained. Use your finger to feel the soil. If it’s dry to the touch, irrigate.

Happy planting! If you have any comments or questions, please reply below.

Filed Under: Establishment and Care Advice, Right Plant In The Right Place, Speak Landscape Like A Pro
May 2, 2014

What Everybody Ought To Know…How to Select Shrubs

Shrubs all look the same…Or do they? You must ask yourself these questions to succeed the first time.

Little Lime Hydrangea is one of my favorites.

Little Lime Hydrangea is one of my favorites.

First, determine where you want to landscape. Is it the right place for a shrub in the first place? I recommend planting evergreen shrubs around the foundation of the home to increase curb appeal and value. However, deciduous shrubs do just fine.

Second, determine the mature size you want the plant to grow to. Don’t choose a Leatherleaf Viburnum if you need something for a small space. Instead choose a soft touch holly or dwarf english boxwood, etc. Please don’t plant something that gets really large under a window. Why? The plant will need pruning several times a year so it doesn’t grow over the window.

When designing your landscape, choose the shrubs with leaf colors that compliment. Most leaves are green, but some are purple. In addition to color, what leaf texture do you want? Needles or true leaves? Do you like sticker-bushes (chinese hollies) or soft foliage plants.

Do you need privacy? You want an evergreen shrub like a holly, boxwood, or some types of Viburnum.

What about colorful blooms? For Tennessee, it’s hard to beat hydrangeas. They have blooms in many colors and sizes.

What’s your favorite shrub? Let me know in the comments section below.

Filed Under: Landscape Design, Right Plant In The Right Place
April 22, 2014

How To Buy Landscape Trees at the Garden Center

“What do I look for in a tree?” you ask. It can be overwhelming, walking into a garden center in spring or fall. There are so many choices and qualities found in trees.

Fruit trees for sale. Notice the plant ID tag. Very important to read before purchase.

Fruit trees for sale. Notice the plant ID tag. Very important to read before purchase.

Here are five guidelines to purchasing a healthy valuable tree.

1. Does it have  a central leader? This is very important for oaks, hickories, etc. that grow large and provide shade. Why is the central leader so important? The central leader guides the growth of the plant upward and the single stem is resilient to damage from wind and pests. Central leader is less important for fruit trees and flowering trees like dogwood and ornamental cherry. I believe a strong central leader is very important for evergreen trees.

2. How does the container root area look or the burlapped area? If roots are growing out of the container or the burlap is tattered, consider passing on this particular tree. Unless you are buying the tree at a discount price. I call these plants “tired.” They have been sitting at the retail lot for too long and need a home. Negotiate a discount if you like or simply pass for a fresher, younger tree.

3. What does the plant tag say? If the tree is missing an ID tag, search Google for info on mature size and spacing like “white oak mature size”. Don’t buy an oak tree if you want something for a small space.

For the best fruit tree in your area, search your local state university extension website for articles. On Google, search “best apple tree for home garden in TN.”

4. Are you budget conscious? Smaller plants typically cost less money because they are younger. Look for small trees if you’re on a tight budget and are willing to wait a few years. Smaller plants also need less daily care.

5. Know the difference between evergreen and deciduous. If you need shade in the hot summer, plant a deciduous tree. If you want to screen for privacy or concealment, plant an evergreen tree.

How has your experience been at the garden center buying tree? Please answer in the comments below.

Filed Under: Expensive Mistakes, Right Plant In The Right Place