TIPS FOR HEALTHY PLANTS

PLANT SELECTION

  • Purchase plants which are appropriate for your site.
  • Note specific light conditions, moisture levels, and direction of exposure.
  • Consider desired size of material at time of planting, as well, as at maturity.
  • Acquaint yourself with special features, such as, flowering, fall color, & winter appearance.
  • Anticipate future maintenance associated with your selection (watering, pruning, fertilizing, etc.)

WHEN TO PLANT

Our hardy nursery stock is grown directly in the container you purchase it in, or has been dug and potted at the proper time of year. This minimizes transplant shock to the roots, allowing for successful planting from April right through to November.

Planting in the Summer

  • Water to a depth of at least 10 cm (4”)
  • Never allow new plants to dry out.
  • Be aware of natural precipitation and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
  • Water early in the day.
  • Water at base of plant. (Not directly on foliage)
  • If in doubt, purchase a moisture meter.

 Planting in the Fall

  • Autumn can be dry and warm so continue to pay attention to soil moistness.
  • As long as the soil is dark in colour and cool to the touch you don’t need to water that day.

Transplanting Existing Plants in your Garden

  • Early spring is the best time to move established plants before they leaf out.
  • Divide perennials in early spring or late autumn.

WATERING   ( DO NOT LISTEN TO THE WEATHER REPORT)

  • Newly planted material requires additional watering until the roots are established.
  • Check soil 3x/week between April 1st – December 1st.
  • As a general rule, MOISTURE METERS WORK GREAT FOR THIS!
  • Certain areas in your yard may dry out faster than others, especially in sunny areas and mounded beds.
  • Soak root areas well; avoid wetting leaves.
  • Adequate watering 2 or 3 times per week is preferred to a light watering every day
  • If the leaves are wilting or tired looking, water immediately. If leaves continue to wilt, there may be too much water.  (ie. Root Rot)

MAINTENANCE

  • Enable your plants to thrive by offering care.
  • Prune off undesirable growth or broken branches; pruning encourages a full growth habit for the future. Inquire about timing for pruning your specific plants.
  • Mulch root areas for winter protection.
  • Spray dormant oil on deciduous plants in early spring.
  • If you notice holes in the leaves, insects, powdery mildew or black spots, wilting, etc. please put a couple leaves leaf in a bag and bring them to our Garden Centre so we can suggest a remedy.

**Your attention could save a plant’s life!**