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PLANTING YOUR GARDEN
GENERAL
Prepare the ground properly before planting. Clear the ground completely, dig over, break up the soil, remove all weed, roots,
etc. and incorporate organic matter. Plants grown in containers can be planted at any time of the year, provided the ground is not waterlogged or frozen. If planting
in dry periods be prepared to water until the plants become established. Bare-root and balled plants are best planted while
dormant, from late autumn to early spring, provided the weather is suitable. Evergreens should not be moved during the winter,
autumn and spring are the best times.
TREES AND SHRUBS
Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root mass without distortion, break up the bottom and sides of the hole to aid drainage. If planting in grass, place the turf removed chopped up in the bottom of the hole. Replace the topsoil firming in layers incorporating organic matter and/or fertiliser at the recommended rate, being careful that the roots come into contact with soil only. Remove any subsoil, bricks, rubble, etc. Shake the plant if necessary to ensure that there are no air pockets around the roots. Plant as deep as the plant was growing in its container or ground. Remove all plastic containers and wrapping completely. Hessian used for root-balls need only be peeled back away from the stem or trunk. Carefully prune all damaged roots before planting. Any damaged branches can be pruned after planting.
Larger plants, or plants in exposed positions will require supporting. The method adopted will depend upon
the size of plant but generally should be stout enough to support the plant without damage. Water thoroughly if the weather is
dry, and continue during dry periods until the plant becomes established.
HERBACEOUS PLANTS
The most sensible time to plant herbaceous plants is early autumn or spring. If your border has been thought out properly you should have your plan on paper. Lay the plants out on the ground first to ensure that you
have the right ones in the right place before you start planting.
Remove the plants from their containers as you plant to avoid them drying out. Remove any leaves which are diseased or damaged. Make the planting hole large
enough to accommodate the roots and firm in well with
your fist or foot. If the ground is dry water well afterwards.
BULBS
Plant bulbs as soon as they become available. Plant spacing and method will depend on species and the purpose for which they are being grown, informal groups of narcissus in grass or formal planting of tulip for
bedding. For the former scatter the bulbs at random and plant exactly where they land using a dibber for small bulbs and a trowel for larger ones. Plant three
times deeper than the bulb is tall. Plant the latter 100 -
300mm. apart depending on the effect required and between 150 - 300mm deep depending on the soil in November.
This fact sheet is a service provided by TRENT STONE. Suppliers of Bulwell Stone, Rockery & Walling,
Pavings, Decorative Gravels and stone materials.
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