Shrubs add a pop of color and structure to your landscape. Whether you’re replacing an old plant or starting fresh, proper planting techniques ensure your shrub thrives for years to come. This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shows how to properly plant a shrub, from preparing the ground to post-planting care.
Preparing the Ground for Shrub Planting
Before you can plant your new shrub, you need to prepare the ground. This step sets the foundation for your shrub’s future growth and health.
Digging the Hole
The size and shape of your planting hole matter. Follow these guidelines:
- Dig a hole that is two and a half times wider than the shrub’s root ball.
- Make the hole 2–3 inches more shallow than the root ball’s height.
- Remove any rocks or debris from the hole.
- Set aside the topsoil for later use.
Cook demonstrates digging a 50-inch wide hole for a root ball that’s 20 inches in diameter. He sets the depth at 12 inches to allow the root ball to sit 2–3 inches above the existing grade, aiding in better acclimation.
Soil Preparation
Once you’ve dug the hole, it’s time to prepare the soil.
- Place the topsoil on a tarp for easy access later.
- Mix compost into the topsoil to add nutrients.
- Add a slow-release fertilizer according to package instructions.
- Blend the amended soil thoroughly.
Healthy soil is the key to a thriving shrub. By enhancing the topsoil with compost, you provide essential nutrients that will sustain your plant. Using a slow-release fertilizer ensures that the nutrients are gradually available to the shrub, promoting steady growth.
Choosing the Right Shrub
Selecting the appropriate shrub for your landscape impacts long-term success. Keep these factors in mind when making your choice:
- Climate and hardiness zone
- Desired look and function in your landscape
- Mature size of the shrub
- Soil type and drainage
- Sunlight conditions in the planting area
Your landscape’s needs will dictate the best shrub for your space. In the video, Cook opts for a yew to replace a dwarf Alberta spruce, noting its toughness and ability to withstand sun and limited water in a challenging corner of the yard. When choosing a shrub, think about the long-term growth and how it fits into your overall landscape design.
Planting Your Shrub
With your ground prepared and shrub selected, you’re ready to plant. Follow these steps:
- Remove the shrub from its container or wrapping.
- Place the shrub in the hole, ensuring it’s centered.
- Rotate the shrub so its best side faces outward.
- Cut away any twine binding the branches.
- If applicable, use bolt cutters to remove the wire basket from the root ball.
- Cut away and remove all burlap from the root ball.
- Backfill the hole with the amended soil mixture.
- Gently tamp down the soil to remove air pockets.
- Create a small berm around the shrub to help retain water.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Post-Planting Care
Proper care after planting is crucial for establishing your new shrub. Follow these guidelines and best practices to ensure your shrub thrives.
Watering
Consistent watering is essential for newly planted shrubs.
- Water the root ball for 30 minutes once a day for the first week.
- Use a soaker hose around the base of the shrub for efficient watering.
- Water for 2 hours once a week after the initial establishment period.
Watering is key to settling the soil and providing essential moisture to the roots. A soaker hose allows for efficient watering, ensuring that water penetrates deep into the soil without runoff. Regular watering in the early stages helps the shrub establish a robust root system.
Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch around your newly planted shrub.
- Use shredded bark or another organic material.
- Spread mulch 2–3 inches deep around the shrub.
- Keep mulch a few inches away from the shrub’s trunk to prevent rot.
Mulching retains moisture and suppresses weeds, promoting a healthier growing environment for your shrub. Organic mulch, such as shredded bark, decomposes over time, adding nutrients to the soil. Keeping mulch away from the trunk prevents moisture from accumulating around the base, which could lead to rot.
Ongoing Maintenance
Regular care will help your shrub establish and thrive.
- Monitor soil moisture and adjust watering as needed.
- Prune as required to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased branches.
- Fertilize annually with a slow-release fertilizer appropriate for your shrub species.
Proper Spacing for Shrubs
Giving your shrubs enough room to grow is essential for their health and the overall appearance of your landscape. Proper spacing prevents overcrowding, which can lead to competition for nutrients and water, and fosters healthy growth.
Distance Between Shrubs
Space shrubs at least half their mature width apart. For example, shrubs that grow 4 feet wide should be planted at least 2 feet apart. Allow extra space for air circulation and maintenance access.
This spacing ensures that each shrub has enough room to grow without crowding its neighbors. Proper air circulation helps prevent diseases and promotes healthy growth. Maintenance access is easier when you have adequate space around each plant.
Shrubs Near Structures
When planting shrubs near walkways, buildings, or other structures:
- Leave at least half the shrub’s mature width between the shrub and the structure.
- Consider the shrub’s growth habit and potential for overhang.
- Allow for future pruning and maintenance needs.
Seasonal Shrub Maintenance
Different seasons require adjustments to ensure your shrub continues to thrive throughout the year. During spring, focus on pruning and shaping your shrub as new growth emerges. This is also an excellent time to fertilize, giving your shrub a nutrient boost as it enters the growing season.
In summer, be vigilant about watering, especially during hot and dry spells. Mulching helps retain moisture and keep the soil cool, protecting the roots from extreme temperatures. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, addressing any issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.
As fall approaches, reduce watering frequency but ensure that your shrub has enough moisture before winter sets in. This is also a good time to add an extra layer of mulch to insulate the roots against cold temperatures. Avoid heavy pruning in fall, as this can stimulate new growth that may not harden off before winter.
During winter, protect your shrub from harsh conditions. If heavy snow or ice accumulates on the branches, gently brush it off to prevent breakage. In areas with intense freeze-thaw cycles, we recommend wrapping your shrub with burlap to shield it from cold winds and fluctuating temperatures.
