Planting and Care Tips

Call 811 (or your local resource) Before You Dig–locate all underground utilities for your safety by calling at least 48 hours before you dig
Handle a Tree by Lifting it by the Pot or Root ball – keep roots moist until planting
Dig a Hole - up to 2 times wider than the root ball diameter and as deep as existing root system
Locate the Trunk Flare & Position it Slightly Above Ground Level–topmost
root should be buried 1-2”
Backfill with Native Soil–can incorporate up to 25% compost into the native soil, use extra soil to form a 2-3” rim (basin) in a circle a bit larger than the diameter of the hole
1. This is our recommendation for areas such as Northwest Indiana where we have very heavy clay soil. Determine your soil type and consult local experts and universities for more specific information for your area.
Fertilize (recommended)–use a granular fertilizer such as Biotone to promote root establishment
1. A starter fertilzer, especially with mycorrhizae, is extremely helpful with root development for the plant's first season. It must be applied at the time of planting and be touching the rootball to be effective.
Mulch - Allow 1-2” Clearance between Tree Trunk & Mulch–mulch 2-3” deep
Water thoroughly – fill basin or Gator bag 2-3 times a week for 2 months after planting until established

Water 2-3 times per week for newly planted trees and shrubs.
Ensure water soaks deeply into the soil—avoid frequent, shallow watering.
Plants need at least 1 inch of water per week from rain or irrigation.
During extended heat and drought, established plants still require 1” of water per week!
Sandy soils need more water than clay soils.
Gator bags are great for slow, deep watering of trees.
Annuals & vegetables should be watered and/or checked daily.