planting perennials for success

1. Water plant in container before planting.

2. Dig a hole that provides plenty of room for root growth:

• This should be slightly wider than the pot size/root ball. Plant the top of the root ball (crown) in line with or slightly above the soil surface. Firm the soil around plant to ensure good soil to root contact.

• Add nutrients. We recommend Schönheit Gardens Secret Garden Compost. This humus-rich organic soil amendment replenishes nutrients, improves soil structure, suppresses weeds, and helps retain water. When planting, work a handful or two into the hole. Apply a 2 inch layer between plants each year keeping 1-2 inches away from plant stems.

• Loosen tangled roots. Tease out tight roots with your fingers and unwrap any that have circled the pot - don’t worry if a few break!

3. Cover the soil surface with 2-3 inches of quality mulch. We recommend leaf mulch or shredded bark mulch. Mulch nourishes the soil, retains water, and suppresses weeds. We provide it in bags or bulk amounts which can be picked up or delivered to your door.

4. Water the root system (not leaves!) deeply for about 1 minute. Check the soil moisture every week throughout the growing season which may be until November if there is no freeze. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day. To test for moisture, stick your index finger into the soil up to the second knuckle to determine if it is wet, moist, or drying out. Continue to water newly established plantings for two years. Consider sun, wind, temperature, season, recent rainfall, and plant preferences.

• Water more frequently when it’s hot, windy or no rain.

• Are the plants under an overhang? Rain won’t reach the plant.