Planting Trees and Shrubs

You'll find trees and shrubs sold three different ways, depending on the time of year and where you shop.

Bare-root plants are typically available in late winter or early spring and are purchased while they're dormant. Bare-root plants are typically the least expensive because they don't have the cost of soil or containers associated with them.

Click here for more on planting bare-root trees and shrubs.

Balled-and-burlapped plants, often simply called b-&-b, are available from spring to fall. They feature a rootball in soil that's surrounded by a large burlap (or similar material) bag. Balled-and-burlapped plants are usually the largest specimens your nursery offers.

Click here for more on planting balled-and-burlapped trees and shrubs.

 

Container-grown trees and shrubs are the most commonly available. They're probably what you think of when you look for plants at your local nursery. Like balled-and-burlapped plants, they're typically available throughout the year. However, they come in a wide range of sizes.

Click here for more on planting container-grown trees and shrubs.

No matter which method you use to plant your trees and shrubs, water them well after planting. Spread a 2- to 3-inch-deep layer of mulch over the soil around the plant; this creates a protective zone so you don't have to mow lawn grasses right up against a newly planted tree (and risk damaging its young bark). It will also help the soil maintain its moisture level longer, so you have to water less.