When dealing with shrubs, it is very important to know the location where the shrubs will be installed. For instants...Is the location in the full sun, full shade, partly sunning, partly shady, and in wet or dry areas?And determine which shrubs will thrive where. Do we have enough nutrients in the soil for the root system to thrive at their full potential?

We can collect all this information by reading material on a specific shrub that you are interested in installing through books and most definitely on the internet. Or at your local nurseries. All nurseries should have labels on all shrubs that you are interested in purchasing.

So we have collected all the information and purchased the shrubs that be installed. Now it is time to install the shrubs. You will also need to purchase some topsoil. Topsoil can be delivered and if not, you will then need to purchase it in bags at your local retailer.

The Installation Process:

If the shrubs that you have purchased came in gallon pots, then you will need to dig the whole two inches deeper and two to three inches wider. This will allow the root system to breathe ( grow ) more faster, and be able to reach its full potential. Add two inches of topsoil at the bottom of the whole. When planting, most shrubs they will have a front and back side to them. And what that means, is that the foliage ( leaves ) has a front and back side to them. Plant the shrub so the foliage with the most of the front side showing facing in the direction that will be most viewed.

Now by reading the label that came with the shrub you will know if it thrives in moist or dry areas. So for shrubs that need moist areas, you will plant the shrub even with the original grade. And if the shrub can thrive in dry areas, you can plant the shrub at least two inches above the original grade. While back filling the root system with topsoil, you will need to lightly pack in the soil around the entire shrub with your hand or shovel.

After or while you are planting these shrubs, you will need to soak each shrub with water. And if you plant these new shrubs in warner weather, make sure to give them a good soaking for about ten to 14 days every day. This will cause the root system to take off nicely.

Always remember that it is a great reward when you create a beautiful landscape with your family and friends.

Before any ground disturbance, call your local utilities.