Kick start your TOUCH OF CLASS® plants by following these simple steps!
Ensure the plant is suited to its site, consider its eventual size and requirements for soil type, light, space and moisture. Check the planting site will allow for the natural development of the tree, consider proximity of overhead and underground services, buildings, structures and other plants.
Dig a planting hole which is generally wide and shallow, the width should be at least twice the size of the root ball and the depth the same as the root ball. Loosen soil in the bottom of the planting hole. Do not glaze the side of the hole if planting in clay, this restricts lateral root extension and water permeability.
If planting in a wet site, reduce the depth of the planting hole so the finished soil level lies just above ground level. Plant the tree centrally in the hole and cleanly cut any damaged root ends.
Backfill with the original soil, avoid using another improved soil mix. If the material is degraded or contaminated, use soil from elsewhere which most closely matches the original soil type for that site.Add a handful of long term slow release fertilizer to the backfill, this will encourage root growth.
Add backfill gradually, firstly ensuring it is thoroughly consolidated amongst the roots, then throughout the planting hole, so that large air pockets are removed. Use extra soil to form a 75mm mound around the perimeter of the planting hole, to create a shallow basin for retaining water. Water the plant thoroughly, slowly filling the basin and allowing it to soak the planting hole completely.
Cover the planting hole with 80-100mm depth of rough grade wood mulch, taking care not to pile up mulch directly around the trunk. |
