PLANTING
SHRUBS
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| Most shrubs
sold in nurseries and garden centers are "containerized" --- having been grown
in a black plastic pot. Shrubs have traditionally been sold by their pot size, which
is in "gallons" --- 1 gallon, 2 gallon, 3 gallon, 5 gallon, 10 gallon, and so
on.
Shrubs grown in pots can be
planted nearly year round, since there is much less disturbance of their
roots than if they were field grown. Field grown plant material is
usually limited to being dug during the dormant season, which is spring
or fall.
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Evergreen in a plastic pot |
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There are a
few special considerations you should give to purchasing, handling and planting
potted plants
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Only buy
shrubs that look healthy and vigorous. Sick plants, even at a discount, are no
bargain.
When
transporting plants, try to protect them from getting "wind whipped".
Covering them with a fabric tarp works very well. Avoid dark plastic wraps that can
heat-up and scorch leaves.
While
holding potted plants for future planting, pay close attention to watering.
Black plastic pots heat-up in the sun causing the soil to dry out quickly. Most
nurseries water pots daily in the summer.
"Circling
roots" are common in potted plants. Be sure to loosen them with your fingers,
or slice the root ball on two sides and across the bottom with a knife. Circling
roots can become girdling roots, causing future problems.
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- Most
shrubs should be planted at least 3 feet apart, and 2 or 3 feet away from walks, steps and
buildings. Plant spacing that looks good right away may result in crowded beds after
5 years. Allow room for future growth.
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- Pay close
attention to watering
your shrubs during their
first growing season, as well as during droughts in future years. Summer watering
contributes to next year's flowers and vigor.
- Keep an
eye on your shrubs for any signs of insects or disease. Clues to watch for include
"off color" foliage or a "spotted" look. Always READ THE LABEL
of pesticides BEFORE you use them.
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Installing a Shrub Bed can be as easy as 1 - 2 - 3 |
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Step 1
Cut your edge, removing 4-inches of sod around
the edge. Layout your shrubs.
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Step 2
Plant your shrubs and thoroughly water them in. Spray
remaining grass with glyphosate (follow label directions)
being careful not to get any spray on your new plants
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Step 3
Once the
glyphosate is dry, mulch the bed with 2
inches of shredded mulch (dyed brown mulch
was used here)
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More
shrub pages
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