The time has finally come to dig. Here are a few pointers
Check the Soil. The day before you plant, check the soil for moisture. If the soils is very wet and heavy, postpone digging until it is loose and light. If the soil is dry the day before, then give it a sprinkle. Plants will go into immediate shock if they are planted in dirt that is very dry. They will lose their leaves and may not recover for an entire year.
Rent a tiller or an auger. Modern machinery can make the back breaking work of planting more efficient. These make it easier to get any soil amendments into the dirt. Be sure you have gotten complete operating and safety instructions before you begin. Wear gloves and safety goggles.
Feed Me! There are many good slow release fertilizers designed to go right into the soil at planting time. This slow release gives plants the nutrients they need to get a good start, often lasting 6-9 months. Because the nutrients are expelled slowly, there is little risk of fertilizer shock. Be sure to follow the directions on the bag. Your local nurseryman can recommend a type or brand that it right for your area.
Mulch. An organic mulch of bark, cypress shavings or pine straw will help protect the plant roots from the elements. It also releases nutrients into the soil as it ages. The added benefit to mulching is weed deterrence. Weeds can ruin the look of a great design. Mulch makes it harder for weeds to sprout.
Prune. Plants that are installed under hot or dry conditions can become so stressed that they lose their leaves. If you are planting in these rough conditions prune your plants of up to one-third of their bulk. Go ahead and cut any branches or limbs you don't like, as long as you leave two-thirds of the existing amount of leaves. Because each leaf requires support, pruning can take off some of the burden that a new transplant feels. Get advice from the nursery when in doubt.
