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Instructions for Container Plants

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Instructions For Container-Grown Plants
Digging the Pit: Dig a pit about 1/3 larger than the container. Make sure that the hole is no deeper than required. If too much soil is removed, the plant will settle in too low. This is particularly important in our clay soils.
Removing Container: No matter what the container is made of, it must be removed before the plant is put in the ground. This includes papier-mâché pots. Removing the container prevents the roots circling or girdling. Cut the container away and either cut the circling roots or lay them out straight. Do this right before planting.
Planting Depth: Set the plant into the hole and make sure the depth is right. Always put the plant back at the same level at which it was grown in the nursery. Make sure the wall of the pit are roughed up in order to avoid an interface that will slow the establishment of the roots of the plant into the existing soil. If the site is very wet, it may be necessary to raise the planting up or to plant on a slight mound.
Backfilling: Backfill and make sure the air pockets are out but firming the soil with your feet. Firm it but don't compact it too tight. It's often a good idea to form a water-holding dam around the pit so the water will enter the planting pit and the plant ball and not run off. With container plants it is important to cover the top of the potting medium with soil or mulch to prevent water evaporation from the plant. This potting soil will dry much quicker than the surrounding existing soil.
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Cindy McDonnell © 1999	Last updated September 24, 1999