Frequently Asked Questions

I just bought a new tree. How should I plant it?

1) Before you plant, make sure to dig a hole 3 to 4 times wider than the pot. Do a drainage test.

2) Often, containerized plants can become rootbound. Make sure to break up the roots all around the rootball to ensure that they can grow properly once in the ground.

3) Prepare the soil. If your soil is made up of a high clay proportion, mix the dug-up soil with no more than half of our soil conditioner.

4) Put the tree in the hole, careful to make sure the base (root collar) of the tree is level with or higher than the ground level.

5) Secure the tree in an upright position using your soil mixture, and firmly pack the hole in, making sure it is void of any air pockets.

6) Once the hole is filled, water your tree well.

7) Mulch base if desired with a mulch depth of 3-4 inches. Make sure the mulch does not touch the trunk of the tree.

8) Make sure to keep the tree well-watered but not soggy until its roots are well established. 

What is a drainage test and how should I do it?

A drainage test is used to determine how quickly or slowly water percolates through a particular growing area in your yard. It is a good idea to perform a drainage test before you install a tree or shrub. To do a drainage test, follow these steps. 

1) Dig a hole in the depth of the rootball you intend to plant. 

2) Fill the hole with at least 6 inches of water.

3) After 24 hours, check the hole.

4) If the hole is empty, your drainage is good (you're very lucky!). If there is still water standing in the hole, you should correct the drainage.

5) Mark the depth of the water with a stick. Have the stick protrude an inch above the water level. 

6) Wait until all the water has drained from the hole, or drain it with a shovel.

7) Place enough crushed rock or small stones to cover the stick in the hole. 

8) Place the rootball on the crushed rock and backfill with existing soil and soil amendments. Mound up soil around the elevated planting sides, not directed on top of the rootball and mulch.

How do I keep my grass weed-free and looking good?

This depends on your type of grass. We have free guides available in the shop that can help you create a regimen for your specific grass type. 

When should I water my houseplants?

Only water your houseplants when they are completely or mostly dry. If they are drooping and the soil is mostly dry, give them a drink. Sometimes, the top few inches of soil will be dry, but the bottom is still wet. A good trick is to stick your finger down into the soil or use a soil moisture probe to see if the roots need water. Overwatering is the #1 killer of houseplants. If you are prone to over-watering, try replanting your plant into a terra cotta clay pot, which allows for excess water to be wicked away from the soil where it may not be needed.