If you are like most homeowners, you probably wait until the spring to plant your trees and shrubs. This is the ideal time to plant bare-root trees and shrubs, as they will have plenty of time to get established before the heat of summer sets in. Here are 5 tips to help you get started:
1. Pick the right plant for the right spot.
Picking the right plant for the right spot is the number one tip for planting bare-root trees and shrubs. This may seem obvious, but it’s amazing how often people choose a plant-based on its looks without considering whether it will actually thrive in the conditions where they want to put it. Make sure you take into account factors like the amount of sunlight and rain the area gets, the type of soil, and whether the plant is native to your region. Not sure which plants are right for you? Our staff will help you review your options. Feel free to bring a photo with you!
Once you’ve found a few plants that would be a good fit, research them further to see which one is most likely to thrive in your particular situation and any ongoing needs they might have so you can maintain your new additions. With a little bit of planning, you can ensure that your new tree or shrub will get off to a great start and continue to flourish for years to come.
2. Water regularly.
If you’re looking to add some new greenery to your landscape, then bare-root trees and shrubs are an ideal choice. These trees and shrubs have no soil or growing media surrounding their roots, making them much easier to plant than a live tree or shrub specimen. However, as with any type of planting project, success depends on proper care during the establishment period.
Water your new bare-root tree or shrub regularly during its first year after planting for a great start. In general, you should give your new plant or shrub one inch of water per week throughout the growing season. This will ensure that it has enough moisture to get firmly established in its new home and grow into a full and healthy plant. If your area is experiencing regular rain and you’re opting for nature to take care of this chore, make sure you chart the days of rain. It’s easy to get out of the habit of regular watering after the rain stops and things dry out. With this simple tip in mind, you can rest assured that your bare-root plants will thrive in their new environment!
3. Fertilize regularly.
One of the best tips for planting bare-root trees and shrubs is to fertilize them regularly. Just like any other plant, they need nutrients to grow and flourish. But when you’re planting, it’s especially important to fertilize, because they have a very limited root system. They can’t take up as much water and nutrients from the soil as a mature plant can. So you need to give them a little boost with fertilizer. Be sure you have the right fertilizer for the right tree. For instance, fruit trees need some nitrogen, but if they have too much, the fruit won’t produce well. Have questions? We can help choose the right fertilizer.
You can apply fertilizer every couple of weeks during the growing season. Just be careful not to overdo it, because too much nitrogen can actually damage the roots. But if you fertilize regularly, you’ll see your bare-root trees and shrubs really take off!
4. Prune regularly.
If you’re new to gardening, you may be wondering when to prune. While there are many different tips and tricks you can use to ensure your plants thrive, one of the most important things to keep in mind is that pruning regularly is key. This helps promote healthy, vigorous growth, while also keeping your trees and shrubs in good shape.
Another benefit of pruning frequently is that it makes it easier to remove dead or damaged branches, as well as unwanted suckers or water sprouts. Pruning is that subtle difference that transforms a yard into a well-manicured lawn that you’ll love. It also helps with mowing and maintaining other parts when your shrubs don’t get overgrown. Whether you’ve just started out as a gardener or you’re looking for ways to improve your existing planting routine, be sure to keep regular pruning high on your list of priorities!
A quick guide to pruning at the right time: Fruit trees, oaks, and maples should be pruned during the winter months so that the sap doesn’t attract bugs. Evergreens should be pruned in June or July and only the new growth should be pruned.
5. Monitor for pests and diseases.
It is essential to monitor the plant closely for signs of pests and diseases. Not only can these conditions cause significant damage to the plant, but they can also have negative impacts on the surrounding ecosystem.
To stay on top of potential issues, it’s important to pay close attention to the leaves and bark for spots or discoloration that could signal the presence of a disease or infestation. Additionally, you should keep an eye out for leaf loss, slow growth, wilting leaves, and other symptoms that suggest something might be wrong with your plant. By staying vigilant about these warning signs and taking immediate action if necessary, you can help your trees and shrubs thrive for years to come.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have success in planting bare-root trees and shrubs this spring! If you have questions, please contact us at Pear Tree Nursery by stopping in or calling 320-632-4747 and we will be happy to help. Happy planting!
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