How to Plant a Shrub - Planting a Shrub : HGTV Gardens

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Planting

The Complete Gardener's Guide, Sep 2011

Fill in Around New Shrub with Enriched Soil — © Dorling Kindersley Limited 2011

Materials Needed

shrubs of choice
till or garden rake
measuring tape
shovel
watering can or garden hose
controlled-release fertilizer
mulch

Step 1: Prepare Area for Planting Shrubs

Lightly Rake Over Soil to Remove Debris — © Dorling Kindersley Limited 2011

A few weeks before planting, till the area to reduce soil compaction, and incorporate some organic matter. Plan your layout carefully, and site shrubs with sufficient space for them to grow to their full size. While they are maturing, fill in any gaps with annuals and perennials, which can be then lifted and moved when necessary

Step 2: Measure Distance from Neighboring Plants

Measure Distance Between Shrubs to Avoid Crowding — © Dorling Kindersley Limited 2011

This will ensure your shrub has space to mature. Dig a hole about twice the width of the container and the same depth as the root ball.

Step 3: Place Shrub into Hole

Check Needed Depth of Shrub Before Planting — © Dorling Kindersley Limited 2011

Use a cane as a guide to ensure that the shrub, in its container, will be at the same level when planted as it is in its pot. Water it thoroughly.

Step 4: Enrich Excavated Soil & Fill

Remove the shrub from its pot, and place it in the hole. Fill in around the roots with the soil enriched with controlled-release fertilizer.

Step 5: Firm Soil

Firm In Around Shrub to Expel Air Pockets in Roots — © Dorling Kindersley Limited 2011

Firm the soil down around the roots with your fingertips.This will help to expel any air pockets. Water in well, and apply a mulch of well-rotted organic matter, leaving a gap around the stems.