Built to Thrive

Call Before You Dig

Always check with your local municipality or utility services to ensure your chosen spot doesn't interfere with underground water, sewer, or power lines.

Hydrate Your Plant

Give your plant a good drink while it's still in the pot. A well-hydrated root ball is much easier to work with and suffers less transplant shock.

Stage Your Space

Place your plants (still in their pots) in the garden to visualize the final look. Ensure you’ve followed the spacing requirements on the tag so they have room to reach their full, breathtaking potential.

Wide, Not Deep

Dig your hole 2–3 times wider than the container but no deeper than the current root ball.

Check the Depth

Lay your shovel handle across the hole to ensure the plant will sit at the same level it was in the pot. Planting too deep can cause the trunk to rot.

Score the Sides

If your soil is heavy clay, use your shovel to roughen up the smooth sides of the hole so new roots can easily penetrate the surrounding earth.

Tease the Roots

Gently slide the plant out of its pot. If the roots are tightly circling, use your fingers to lightly pry them apart so they grow outward instead of in a knot.

Position with Pride

Place the plant in the center of the hole. If it has a "best side," make sure it's facing toward your favorite view.

Backfill with Native Soil

Fill the hole with the soil you dug out. Gently firm it down with your hands (don't stomp!) to remove large air pockets without compacting the dirt too much.

Water Deeply

Immediately after planting, give the area a generous soaking. This settles the soil around the roots and provides essential moisture for the transition.

Mulch Properly

For standard plants, shrubs and young trees, spread 2–3 inches of mulch out to the drip line, leaving a 2–3 inch gap around the base to allow plant to breathe and to prevent rot.

Admire the View

Take a moment to enjoy your new addition. You’re one step closer to that magazine-ready landscape!