Planting techniques for landscape plants
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EmailNew MSU Extension publication, “Planting Techniques: A Guide for Successful Plant Establishment” explains how to improve long-term survival and vigor of landscape plants.
Planting techniques are one of the most discussed landscape practices. There are a variety of opinions regarding what proper planting techniques should include. Special planting mixes, soil amendments and additives often top the list of “signature” practices.
Unlike other construction practices, planting involves a live product, soil dynamics and other environmental influences at the planting site. Planting techniques focus on the plant, planting procedures and management with modifications needed to address specific requirements of stock type (balled and burlap, container or bare-root), species type (trees, shrubs, ground covers, herbaceous perennials, and annuals), transplant method (mechanical tree spade), and site conditions. Proper planting techniques must incorporate plant biology, horticulture, soil science, engineering and economics. The bottom line is that techniques must be scientifically sound, feasible within construction operations and efficient in terms of labor requirements. Failure to focus on all of these factors can have negative influences on plant establishment
To assist professional landscapers and home gardeners, MSU Extension has published a new 16-page publication, Planting Techniques: A Guide for Successful Plant Establishment. This publication features diagrams and descriptions for successfully planting various landscape plants as well as a section on problems associated with improper planting. The guide costs $5.00 and is available through the MSU Extension Book Store.
For additional gardening information, call the MSU Extension Lawn and Garden Hotline at 1-888-MSUE-4MI (1-888-678-3464). You can also visit www.migarden.msu.edu.
