Tree, Shrub and Flower Planting

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Lawns USA Services - Tree and Shrub Planting

Lawns USA supplies a full tree and shrub planting service to those clients who cannot afford the time to do their own planting.

For all types of trees, make sure that the soil gets dry between periods of watering (before watering again), otherwise fungi or bacteria will propagate and kill the root system of the tree. This is particularly important in clay soil.

Consider these factors when selecting a tree

Zone: It is very important to know the hardiness zone you live in and the zone where the new tree comes from. Native trees usually adapt well since they are used to this climate and soil.

Type of soil: If your lot has clay soil, only certain trees will do well. They should also be planted higher than ground level.

Moisture of soil: Only a few types of trees like "wet feet". Usually lower spots on a property are wet two thirds of the growing season and that is more than enough to kill the root system.

Sunlight: Just a few types of tree can grow in shade, so it is important that the new young tree gets lots of sun.

Mature size of tree: This is very important to know, especially if you have a small lot. You are better off staying with ornamental trees than a fast growing majestic tree that in 10 or 15 years will take over your lot or need to be removed.

Spring or fall colour: Some trees in the spring are covered with flowers before the leaves come out or the leaves emerge colourful before turning to their normal colour, other trees are beautiful in the fall.

Simple Guide to Planting Flowers

1. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil.
2. If your soil is sandy or clay, amend it by mixing or tilling 6 cubic feet of composted organic matter per 100 square feet of bed area.
3. Take the plant out of the pot and check the root system. If the roots are matted, you may need to slice the roots on the bottom of the ball in an ‘X’. This allows the roots to grow into the soil and establish faster.
4. Backfill the plant and firmly pack the soil around the ball. Water, and keep moist.
5. Mulch with pine fines at 1” maximum depth. This will cover the soil and keep it moist.
6. Fertilize with Osmocote slow release fertilizer at the recommended rate on the bag.
7. For optimum growth, feed monthly with complete liquid fertilizer.
   Trailing and Wave petunias need more nitrogen fertilizer than regular bedding petunias because of their more rapid growth. An iron chelate spray or a nitrogen fertilizer with extra iron will promote attractive dark green leaves.