Best Care Tips for Planting Trees and Shrubs

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1. Choose the Right Plant

• Soil Preference: Many trees and shrubs thrive in sandy, acidic soils, including hollies, oaks, pines, blueberries, and azaleas.

• Sun vs. Shade: Match the plant’s light requirements to the site conditions. Most flowering shrubs and trees prefer full sun, while shade-tolerant varieties are better for wooded areas.

• Salt Tolerance: If planting near roads, driveways, or coastal areas, consider salt-tolerant species like bayberry, red cedar, or inkberry holly

2. Prepare the Soil

Southern New Jersey’s sandy soils drain quickly but don't hold nutrients well. To help:

• Amend the Soil: Mix Rich Organic Topsoil into the planting hole to boost moisture and nutrient retention.

• Test the pH: Many plants do well in slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5), but it’s good to test if you’re unsure. Lime can be added if soils are too acidic for a specific plant.

3. Dig the Right Hole

• Width: Dig the hole a few to several inches wider than the root ball. A wider hole encourages roots to grow outward.

• Depth: The hole should be no deeper than the height of the root ball. Planting too deep suffocates roots.

4. Plant Carefully

• Positioning: Place the tree or shrub in the hole so the top of the root ball sits slightly above ground level (about 1–2 inches).

• Backfill: Use the soil you removed (with rich organic topsoil mixed in) to fill around the root ball. Press lightly to eliminate air pockets but avoid compacting the soil too much.

• Mulch: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch (like pine bark, shredded hardwood, or pine straw) around the base. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

5. Water Properly

• Initial Watering: Water deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil.

• Ongoing Care: Water deeply but infrequently, especially during the first growing season. Sandy soils drain fast, so in hot, dry weather you may need to water 2–3 times per week.
 

6. Staking (if necessary)

• Most trees do not need to be staked unless they are in a very windy spot or have a small root ball and heavy top growth.

• If staking, remove the stakes after one year to avoid damaging the tree.

7. Fertilizing

• First Weeks: Avoid fertilizing right away. Allow the plant to focus on root development. Never add fertilizer directly to the hole during planting.

• Weeks 3-4 & Onward: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs, such as Plant Tone.

8. Watch for Signs of Stress

Keep an eye out for:

• Wilting or discolored leaves (can indicate underwatering or overwatering)

• Settling (if the root ball sinks too low, lightly lift and re-mulch)

• Pests or diseases (especially in hot, humid summers — early action is key)