Use and Care Guide
• For large plants; build a soil ring around the plant to use as a water reservoir. is will assist in watering until
the plant is established.
• Always water slowly and deeply making sure the root ball is completely saturated.
• Don't water at night if possible. Watering in the morning helps prevent disease.
• If new plant wilts between watering, increase the frequency of watering.
• Plants in hot, humid or sunny areas need more frequent watering than plants in cool climates.
• Plants in containers may require more frequent watering than plants in the ground. is will depend on plant
variety, pot size and soil.
• Add a 2-3" layer of organic mulch around plant to maintain and conserve soil moisture. Mulch will reduce
watering frequency and speed root establishment.
How to Fertilize
• Fertilize just before and during the plants active growing cycle. Fertilization should begin just prior to new
growth and end three or four weeks before the rst frost.
• Choose a fertilizer recommended for trees or shrubs. Frequency will depend on the type of fertilizer. Liquid
(water soluble) and granular quick release fertilizer require more frequent application; slow release granular
types require less.
• When using granular fertilizer be sure to sprinkle fertilizer pellets away from the plant stems or trunk to
prevent possible burning. Also, make sure the fertilizer application extends to the drip line of the tree. Water
thoroughly aer application. is dissolves or releases the fertilizer into the soil. Apply water soluble fertilizer
by thoroughly drenching the leaves and soil.
• Always follow fertilizer package directions.
How to Prune
• Prune trees to encourage growth, increase owers or enhance a natural form.
• When pruning, make angled cuts just above the bud.
• Reduce disease and pests by pruning crossing or rubbing branches. is will help to increase air ow through
the tree canopy.
• Remove damaged or dead limbs back to live wood.
• Prune branches that could easily fall and cause damage to people or property. Have a professional remove any
limbs located near power lines.
• Use proper tools such as shears, hand pruners, pole pruners and pruning saws. Make sure all equipment is
clean and sharp.
• Fertilize aer pruning to help speed new growth.