Easy Planting Instructions for Success

We want you to be successful with your garden. To achieve the best results, we recommend following these basic planting guidelines to help your trees, shrubs, and perennials establish quickly and thrive long-term.

Preparation

New plants should be installed as soon as possible after purchase. If there is a delay, it’s important to protect them from moisture loss. Store plants in a shady, wind-protected area and keep the root area evenly moist.

Always handle plants gently, using the container or root ball to move them. Never lift or carry a plant by its stems. Be sure to place each plant in its preferred growing environment to ensure the best results.

Size of the Planting Hole

It is vital to dig the planting hole at least 12 cm wider than the root ball on all sides. This extra space allows room for soil amendments and encourages roots to grow outward into surrounding soil.

When planting large or heavy root balls, leave the soil at the bottom of the hole firm. This prevents the plant from settling too low after watering. The finished soil level should match how the plant was grown in the nursery, or sit up to 8 cm higher if planting in clay soil.

Plastic Pots

Water the plant thoroughly before removing it from its container. If tapping the sides and bottom doesn’t release the root ball, make two vertical cuts along opposite sides of the pot and gently pull it away.

Loosen exposed roots carefully using your fingers or a knife. If roots are tightly matted or circling, make several shallow vertical cuts, 13 mm to 2.5 cm deep, to encourage new outward growth.

Fibre Pots

Fibre pots must be removed before planting, as modern versions contain additives that slow decomposition. Water the plant well, then slit the sides of the pot and carefully remove it in sections while supporting the root ball with soil. Continue preparing roots as described above.

Planting in Clay Soils

Clay soil requires extra attention to ensure proper drainage. Dig a wider hole and raise the planting area 5–8 cm above the surrounding grade using sand or gravel at the base.

Amend the soil generously with a 3-in-1 soil mix. After planting, mound soil slightly around the root ball and create a shallow dam around the plant to prevent water runoff. Mulch to reduce erosion and moisture loss.

Special Care for Special Plants

Roses may be grown in plastic or fibre pots and are usually grafted onto hardy rootstock. The graft union (the swollen area where stems emerge) must be planted approximately 5 cm below soil level for winter hardiness.

Rhododendrons, azaleas, and other broad-leaf evergreens benefit from additional sphagnum peat moss mixed into the soil.

Peaches, nectarines, and cherries require excellent drainage. Do not plant them in wet areas and avoid overwatering.

When Planting Is Completed

Watering

The initial watering should include a transplanter fertilizer (5-15-5) containing a rooting hormone. This is the most important fertilization your plant will receive, as it stimulates root growth into surrounding soil. Do not apply additional fertilizer during the first year, and never place granular fertilizer in the planting hole.

Water deeply at the dripline, the outer edge of the branches, to encourage a deep, drought-tolerant root system. Water only when soil feels dry 5–8 cm below the surface. Continue this practice until the plant is well established. Divert downspouts and sprinklers away from the planting area.

Mulching

Mulch improves the appearance of garden beds, reduces weeds, and helps retain moisture. It also keeps roots cool in summer and insulated in winter, making maintenance easier and improving plant health.

Easy Steps for Success

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Plant trees and shrubs no deeper than they were grown at the nursery.
Ensure good drainage, especially in clay soils, by modifying planting areas as needed.
Always dig planting holes at least 12 cm wider than the root ball.
Use only high-phosphorus transplanter fertilizer during the first year.
Aim for a soil mix of 50% soil, 25% peat moss, and 25% manure.
Check newly planted material twice weekly for adequate moisture.
Water evergreens thoroughly in fall before freeze-up to prevent winter desiccation.
For sensitive evergreens, applying an anti-desiccant in fall can provide added protection.

Following these steps will give your plants the best possible start and set your garden up for long-term success. Now the question is, what plants are you going to get?

~ Kelly Heath
Retail Manager
Gemmell’s Garden Centre