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 Planting Techniques
19 December 2003
Because the weather has been so mild over the last few weeks the conditions for planting have been ideal. The soil temperature has been warm enough to still encourage a bit of root growth and the recent rainfall has finally put a bit of moisture back into the soil.
A question has arisen several times recently in the garden centre with regards to a newly recommended planting technique. The theory behind the new idea is to not use any compost or bone meal in the hole when planting. The basis behind the theory is that by only using the original soil the roots will penetrate the surrounding ground quicker. I think this may work in some soils however in our part of the country where the soil is generally heavy clay the traditional method of using a good compost and a handful of bone meal will still be beneficial, after all it has been successfully tried and tested for a long time now.
If you are considering planting a tree now is the best time to find the largest selection in the garden centre. Here are a few pointers to successful planting.
Step 1: Mark out the area of the hole where the tree is to be planted. It needs to be approx 2 to 3 times bigger than the pot. Remove any grass or weeds.
Step 2: Once the hole has been dug, using a fork lightly loosen the base and the sides of the hole so the roots can penetrate easily. Using a good compost fill in the bottom of the hole so the tree roots can sit on it and the top be level with the ground. Using a hand full of bone meal, lightly fork in the compost
Step 3: Soak the roots and place the tree in the centre of the hole and using a mixture of the original soil and compost fill in around the tree roots, firm in well to avoid any air pockets.
Step 4: Use a stake and tie to stabilise the tree. Allow a little bit of natural movement to encourage the tree to stabilize itself with some root growth. Finally water well and continue to water for the first twelve months. Happy Planting!
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