Planting Guide

Give your plants a healthy start and make your planting easier by taking the time to make the right preparations before you begin planting. Here are some suggestions to help make your planting a success!

Select An Appropriate Site

Sunlight, soil, and water requirements can vary from plant to plant. Be sure that the unique demands of your plant are met at the location you choose.
Give your plant room to grow. Is there enough surrounding space to allow your plant to mature? Look above your plant. Make sure the pace is free from utility wires and other trees. Also choose a space that has enough room underground for roots to grow - free from building foundations and other tree roots. Need help determining the ideal environment? Ask a friendly Alsip Nursery Associate!

Check Your Soil

Healthy plants start with healthy soil. Dig a test hole to check for proper drainage, moisture retention, aeration and nutrients. Soil characteristics depend on the mix of clay, sand and organic matter, such as compose and peat moss. In most cases, light or medium brown soils lack organic matter and nutrients. Lighter, sandy soil drain quickly and are easier to dig than heavy, compacted clay soils.
Moist soils fall somewhere between sand and clay. No matter what your soil, it will be dramatically improved by using our recommended soil amendments.

Digging the Hole

Once placement has been determined, dig an area for the root ball to placed upon undisturbed/tamped soil. Make sure hole 2x the width and just as high as the root ball. (Example: 24”W x 24”H Root Ball requires a 48”W x 24”H ) Leaving 1” - 3” higher than grade in heavy clay soils.

Find The “Front” of the Plant

Sometimes a plant will look better when viewed from a particular angle. Walk around your plant and determine which side you think looks best and position accordingly.