Planting a new tree, shrub, perennial, or annual is one of the most rewarding ways to improve your landscape. Proper planting techniques help plants establish strong root systems, grow to their full potential, and thrive for years to come.
Before planting, it is important to understand the mature size, light requirements, and soil conditions your plant needs.
If you are unsure what plants will work best in your yard, visit one of The Mill Stores Garden Centers for expert advice and locally adapted plants.
Plan for the Mature Size of Your Plant
One of the most common landscaping mistakes is planting too close together or too close to structures.
Before planting, consider the mature height and width of the plant. Trees and shrubs often grow quickly during their early years.
Typical growth patterns include:
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Trees: Fast growers can grow 2–3 feet per year for the first 3–12 years
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Shrubs: Most shrubs grow rapidly for the first 2–6 years
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Mature plants: Growth slows but never completely stops
For example, if you have a 12-foot planting area and shrubs mature at 3 feet wide, only three plants are needed to fill the space over time.
Small container plants may look undersized initially, but they will fill in as they mature.
Choose the Right Sun Exposure
Plants require different amounts of sunlight to grow and flower properly.
Understanding sunlight categories will help you place plants in the right location:
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Full Sun: At least 6 hours of sunlight daily
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Part Shade: About 4 hours of sun, preferably morning sun
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Part Sun: About 4 hours of sun in morning or afternoon
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Shade: Minimal direct sun, often filtered through trees
Choosing the correct location prevents stress and improves plant performance.
Understand Your Soil
Soil type affects drainage, nutrient availability, and root development.
Common soil types include:
Well-drained soils
Sandy or rocky soils that drain quickly.
Loamy soils
Ideal planting soil that drains well but retains moisture.
Clay soils
Heavy soils that hold water and can become compacted.
If you are unsure about your soil quality, consider having a soil test performed. The Mill offers soil testing services to help determine the best amendments for your landscape.
You can also improve planting soil with quality organic materials such as:
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Coast of Maine planting mixes
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Organic Mechanics compost blends
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Holganix soil amendments
Many of these products are available through The Mill Stores Garden Centers.
Always Call Before You Dig
Before planting trees or shrubs, contact Miss Utility to locate underground utility lines. This prevents damage to pipes, irrigation systems, and electrical lines.
How to Dig the Proper Planting Hole
Proper planting depth is critical for plant health.
Follow these steps:
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Dig the hole the same depth as the root ball or container.
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Make the hole twice as wide as the root ball.
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Remove the plant from the container.
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If burlap or wire baskets are present, remove them from the top of the root ball.
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Place the plant in the hole and center it.
Locate the Root Flare
The root flare is where the trunk widens and transitions into the root system.
The root flare should be slightly above the soil line when planted.
A properly planted tree should not look like a pencil stuck in the ground.
Planting too deeply is one of the most common causes of tree decline.
Backfill the Soil Properly
Once the plant is positioned:
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Fill soil evenly around the root ball
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Add water as you backfill to eliminate air pockets
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Mix 10–20% organic compost into the native soil if needed
Recommended soil amendments include:
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Organic Mechanics Fuhgeddaboudit Compost
These products help improve soil biology and encourage mycorrhizal root growth.
Mulch Correctly
Mulch helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.
Apply 1–2 inches of mulch around the plant.
Important tips:
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Keep mulch away from the trunk and root flare
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Extend mulch toward the drip line
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Avoid mulch volcanoes
Proper mulching encourages healthy root development.
Best Time to Plant Trees and Shrubs
The ideal planting times are:
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Fall
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Winter
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Early Spring
During these seasons, plants are typically dormant and can establish roots before active growth begins.
Plants That Prefer Spring Planting
Some species establish better when planted in spring.
Examples include:
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Dogwood
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Magnolia
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Willow Oak
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Tulip Poplar
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Yellowwood
These trees have fleshy root systems that can be sensitive to winter damage.
Most evergreens also benefit from spring planting since they remain active throughout winter.
Watering Newly Planted Trees and Shrubs
Water is the most important factor for new plant survival.
A general guideline:
One inch of water per week
If rainfall is insufficient:
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Water deeply at the soil line
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Use soaker hoses for slow, deep watering
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Measure water with a simple tuna can test
During hot, windy conditions, new plants may require watering twice per week.
Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal disease.
Planting Shrubs for a Natural Landscape
Shrubs should be planted using the same techniques as trees.
For better visual appeal:
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Plant shrubs in staggered groupings
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Use odd numbers of plants
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Avoid rigid straight lines
Mulch shrubs with 1–2 inches of mulch, keeping it away from stems.
Creating a Balanced Landscape
A well-designed landscape often includes:
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1/3 evergreen plants
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1/3 deciduous plants
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1/3 perennials, annuals, or bulbs
Trees act as the anchors of the landscape, providing structure and shade.
Evergreens can be used for:
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Privacy screens
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Wind protection
Deciduous trees provide summer shade and winter sunlight once leaves drop.
Fertilizing Trees and Shrubs
Once plants are established, they can benefit from fertilization in early spring as they emerge from dormancy.
Avoid fertilizing in fall, which can encourage new growth that may be damaged by winter weather.
Quality fertilizers include:
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Espoma Tree-tone
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Holganix Bio 800 Bloom for flowering plants
These products are formulated to support plant health and soil biology.
Transporting and Handling Nursery Plants
When transporting plants from the nursery:
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Lay larger plants with the tops facing the rear of the vehicle
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Protect plants from wind damage
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Cover with a tarp if possible
Once home:
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Carry plants by the container, not the trunk
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Store in shade if not planting immediately
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Water daily if plants remain above ground
Container plants can dry out quickly, especially in warm weather.
Need Help Choosing or Planting?
Planting correctly makes all the difference in the long-term success of your landscape.
If you have questions about plant selection, soil amendments, fertilizers, or planting techniques, The Mill team is happy to help.
Visit your local Mill Store Garden Center for expert advice, soil testing services, and the best products for healthy plants.
