Planting

Trees and shrubs

Trees and shrubs provide value to your property and make the landscape more attractive. However, unlike other landscape features such as walls, fences, and sidewalks, trees and shrubs are living additions to your property. Proper planning and planting is required to reap the long-term benefits and beauty they can provide.

Site Planning

When choosing trees and shrubs, consider their requirements for sun, soil conditions, and space. Also remember that a tree or shrub purchased at the nursery may eventually grow to two to four times its current height and width.  The underground root system for a mature tree or shrub is approximately the same width as what is visible above ground. Therefore, take into consideration the full mature size of the tree or shrub when planting near sidewalks, building foundations and other fixed landscape features so that the spreading roots do not damage structures. Always call va811.com and request a site survey to locate and flag underground utilities. This service is free and necessary to ensure that the digging is done safely and that underground utilities are not damaged.

Planting

Successful planting starts with proper site preparation. The hole should be one to two feet wider and deeper than the pot or ball root at the time of purchase. If the plant was purchased in a container, the roots may be overcrowded in the pot, in which case they need to be gently separated. The hole should be backfilled with organic material and/or peat added to the soil. It is important to saturate the root ball to make sure that no air pockets exist in the soil. Also, saturating the ground and allowing for sinkage will ensure that the tree or shrub is positioned slightly higher than ground level to allow for drainage. After the tree or shrub is planted, a layer of mulch, spread to form a circle around the plant, is applied.