Customer Planting Instructions

We ship dormant plants with no leaves, booms, or foliage. 

About Bare Root Plants

Watch this video to learn about how we ship our plants, and to learn how to do a scratch test.

 

How to Plant Trees, Bushes, and Shrubs

Dig the Planting Hole

• Size: Dig a hole twice as wide as the tree’s roots when spread out and deep enough to ensure the root flare (where the trunk meets the roots) will sit slightly above ground level.
• Mound the Soil: Create a small mound of soil at the bottom of the hole to support the roots and prevent air pockets.

Plant the Tree or Shrub

• Position the tree on the mound, spreading the roots naturally and evenly around it.
• Ensure the root flare is at ground level or slightly above to prevent burying the trunk, which can lead to rot.
• Backfill the hole with the original soil, gently firming it down to remove air pockets. Avoid adding fertilizers or amendments at this stage, as they may damage young roots.

Water Thoroughly

• After planting, water the tree deeply to help settle the soil around the roots and promote root-to-soil contact.

Mulch Around the Base

• Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch around the tree's base, keeping it 2–3 inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.

Stabilize if Necessary

• Use stakes to stabilize the tree in windy areas or for taller trees. Place two stakes on opposite sides, securing the tree loosely with soft ties. Remove stakes after the tree establishes itself, usually after one growing season.

For more details, see our video below.

How to plant Perennial Bulbs and Tubers

• Plant bare root bulbs during their dormant season, usually in early spring or fall, depending on the bulb variety and your climate. Ensure the ground is not frozen.

Prepare the Bulbs

• Unpack the bulbs immediately upon arrival.
• Soak the bulbs in lukewarm water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate and prepare them for planting.

Select the Planting Site

• Choose a location that matches your specific bulbs' light and soil requirements (e.g., sun-loving or shade-tolerant).
• Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause the bulbs to rot.

Prepare the Soil

• Loosen the soil to about 8–12 inches, removing rocks and debris.
• Enrich the soil with organic compost, ensuring it is loose and nutrient-rich.

Dig the Holes

• The planting depth will vary based on the bulb size. A general rule is to plant bulbs 2–3 times their height deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs 4–6 inches apart for smaller bulbs and 6–12 inches for larger ones.

Position the Bulbs

• Place the bulb with the pointed end (growth tip) facing upward. For irregular-shaped bulbs, look for tiny root nubs or a flatter side, which should face downward.
• If the bulb has visible roots, spread them gently in the hole.

Backfill with Soil

• Cover the bulbs with soil, lightly pressing down to remove air pockets.
• Avoid compacting the soil too tightly, as this can hinder root growth.

Water Thoroughly

• Water the area immediately after planting to help the soil settle and ensure good root contact.
• Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy during the growing season.

• Add Mulch
• Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch over the planting area to retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Keep the mulch slightly away from the bulb’s growth point to avoid rot.

Monitor Growth

• Water regularly as the bulbs begin to grow, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilize lightly once shoots emerge, using a balanced or bulb-specific fertilizer.
  

For more details, see our video below.

How to plant ferns

• Dig a hole large enough to spread out the fern’s roots without bending them.
• Create a small mound or hill of soil in the center of the hole to support the fern’s crown (where the roots meet the fronds).

Plant the Fern

• Place the fern on the mound with the crown slightly above soil level. The roots should spread naturally downward and outward.
• Backfill the hole with soil, covering the roots but leaving the crown exposed.

Water Thoroughly

• Water the fern generously after planting to help settle the soil around the roots and promote good contact.

Apply Mulch

• Apply 2–3 inches of mulch, such as shredded leaves or pine needles, around the base of the fern to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Keep the mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.

Care and Maintenance

• Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilizing: Feed the fern with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.

For more details, see our video below.

How to Install Live Stakes

• Use a steel bar or stake driver to create pilot holes in the soil. This prevents damaging the live stakes during planting.
• Insert the stake into the pilot hole, ensuring at least two-thirds of its length is below ground. The thicker, cut end should face downward to encourage rooting.
• Ensure the stakes are planted vertically or at a slight angle pointing upstream to resist water flow.

Space the Stakes

• Space them 2–3 feet apart in rows or staggered patterns for maximum soil stabilization and coverage.
• Adjust spacing based on the severity of erosion and the plant species' growth habits.

Tamp and Water

• Firmly tamp the soil around the stakes to eliminate air pockets.
• Water the area, especially if rainfall is scarce, to keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season.

For more details, see our video below.

How To Install Live Moss Pads

1. Simply scratch (or disturb) the surface of the soil. Moisten the moss well and the soil.

2. Lay the most pieces on the surface of the disturbed soil. Gently press the pads into the soil.

3. Water twice a week until the roots adhere to the soil, then irrigate as needed, and your moss will grow beautifully. Most thrive in shade and moisture and moist soils.

Here is a great moss video from Gardener Joe. It's most helpful in introducing you to the many ways you can utilize moss in a container and soil.