Weeder’s Digest
doesn’t love adding a new tree or
shrub to the yard? Unfortunately,
planting trees and shrubs in our lovely
red clay can be challenging – for both you and the plant. I’ve
heard stories of actually needing a pick axe around Smith
Mountain Lake just to break the ground, so can you actually
make anything grow given such hostile conditions? Yes, you
can. Assuming you have chosen the right plant for the right
spot, here are some planting tips and techniques that will give
your new additions their best chance to get established and
thrive.
First, is there a “right time” to plant trees and shrubs in our
area? While Fall and Spring (in that order) are traditionally
considered the optimal planting seasons, you can really plant
any time as long as the ground is not frozen. Even during the
long hot days of a typical SML summer, which are usually
harder on the planter than on the plant, if you use proper
planting and maintenance techniques, your new plants will
do just fine. Remember: until you take them home, plants
hang out at your favorite garden center 24/7, so they are
already acclimated to the summer conditions.
No matter when you plant, the key to success is HOW you
dig and fill that hole, along with proper watering. This is of
utmost importance to your plant’s survival.
Before you dig, make sure you have good planting mix
on hand to add to your soil, because the growing medium
in the plant’s pot is a far cry from the soil into which you
are about to introduce it. You will need to bridge the gap
from potted to planted to ensure adequate drainage. I like to
By Bob Siren
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Wherever in the World It Is, You Will Find It At
Black Horse Manor!
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40 Village Spring Dr.
Hardy, VA
(540) 721-0181
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Discover Smith Mountain Lake
Fall 2014
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