I dont' want to bore you with the exact details on "how" to plant your shrub. Instructions
are usually on the plant label from the garden center, but I do want to make you aware of a few things.
Make sure your plants are spaced far enough apart so they
have room to grow. If planted too close together, there
will be
no air circulation between them and sun will not be able to get
inside to all the leaves. This will create a host environment
for
insects and disease.
Don't plant too close to your house. If branches and
leaves are
touching your house, the moisture they hold against the wood will
cause the wood to rot. It will also cause stains on vinyl
siding.
And, once again, cause diseases.
Be sure to mulch around your plants 2-3" deep. Mulch is very
beneficial. It helps retain soil moisture, keeps soil temperatures
from fluxuating, which can damage roots, prevents weeds and
adds a nice, finished touch to the bed. DO NOT
mulch heavily
around the base of the plant. Keep mulch off the bark, it will
retain moisture and cause the plant to rot off at the soil level.
One final thing and I'll let you get started. FERTILIZER!!!
Always fertilize your shrubs and flowers when you plant them.
Plants get hungry too! There are great fertilizers
at your local
nursery or garden center specific to your needs. Read
the label
or ask a sales assistant for help.
Think you're ready to get started? I do!!
