Choosing the right moment to plant conifers depends on several factors, such as the type of seedling or climatic conditions. Generally, and autumn, but each of these seasons has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Spring planting
Spring planting falls for the period from mid -April to mid -Maybefore green buds appear on the shoots. Spring planting gives plants the entire growing season for rooting and adaptation to new conditions. However, it should be remembered that young conifers planted in spring require regular watering, especially in summer heat to prevent dryness.
Autumn planting
Autumn planting takes place from mid -August to mid -October. The soil is still warm after the summer, which promotes the rapid rooting of plants. In addition, autumn rainfall helps in irrigation, reducing the need for watering. However, planting conifers too late in autumn may result in insufficient rooting before the arrival of frosts, which increases the risk of freezing.
It is also worth paying attention to the type of seedling. Conifers sold in containers can be planted throughout the entire growing season, from spring to autumn, but avoiding periods of extreme heat. On the other hand, plants with an outdoor root system or bales (with a lump of soil wrapped in jute) are best planted at periods of their rest, i.e. early spring or autumn.
The success in the cultivation of conifers largely depends on the proper preparation of the position and soil. Most conifers Prefers sunny or semi-shaded positions and soil with a slightly acidic reaction (pH 5.5-6.5). Before planting, it is worth checking the soil reaction using testers available in garden stores. If the pH is too high, they can be lowered by adding acid peat or specialized substrate for conifers.
The soil should be Fertile, permeable and well drained. In places with heavy, clay soil, it is worth making drainage, adding a layer of gravel or sand at the bottom of the hole, which will prevent water stagnation and rotting. Before planting, it is also recommended to enrich the soil with compost or well -converted manure, which will provide plants with the necessary nutrients.
The process of planting conifers step by step
- Preparation of the hole – trench A hole with a diameter about twice as large as the root block of seedlings and a depth slightly larger than its height. Loosen the bottom and wall of the hole, which will facilitate the roots of soil penetration.
- Cutting the seedling – before planting it is worth withCancel the root block in water for about 15-30 minutesso that it soaks well. This will help the plant better endure stress associated with exaggeration.
- Placing the plant in the hole – gently place the seedling in the hole so that the upper surface of the root block is at the ground level. In the case of baled plants, if the block is wrapped in jute, do not remove it – this material will decompose naturally.
- Backfilling the hole – backfill with a previously prepared mixture of the soil, gently kneading it around the roots to make eliminate any empty spaces. After filling the half of the hole, you can pour water, wait for it to soak, and then add the rest of the soil.
- Watering – after planting Pour the plant abundantlywhich will help to embed the soil around the roots and provide adequate humidity. In the following weeks, monitor soil moisture and water less often, but more abundantly, so that the water reaches deeper into the root system. Sleeping, frequent watering can lead to the roots close to the surface, which makes the plant less resistant to drought and frosts.
- Mulching – Layer of pine bark, sawdust, needle or chopping It protects the roots against excessive water evaporation, inhibits weed growth, and in winter helps maintain a stable ground temperature. In addition, over time, the decaying litter enriches the soil with valuable organic compounds, improving its structure.
- Fertilization – newly planted conifers do not require fertilization right away. Enriching the hole with compost or well -spread manure is enough for the first season. It is best to carry out the next year when the plant is well rooted.
Although planting conifers seems simple, in practice many problems result from several repetitive errors. Here are the most common ones:
- Too deep planting – the plant should be placed at the same depth at which it grew earlier. Too deep planting can lead to root rotting,
- Inadequate position – too thin or too dry places are not conducive to healthy growth. Some types of conifers, such as pine or junipers, tolerate excess shadow and moisture, badly,
- Lack of soil preparation – planting without prior soil loosening and without checking its pH may result in a poor intake of the plant and growth inhibition,
- Lack of drainage – in heavy, clay soils it is necessary to make a drainage layer that will protect the roots against water stable,
- Ignoring the need for watering after planting – even if it rains, the newly planted plant needs regular, controlled watering to root well.
The first weeks after planting are the most important for young conifers. It is then that the tree or shrub is most intensively working on the expansion of the root system. Regular watering and soil moisture control is the basis. It is also worth observing the plant – whether it does not turn yellow, it does not lose needles or not. Any disturbing symptoms are a signal that you need to react quickly.
In the winter season, young conifers are worth protecting – especially the evergreen ones. You can use for this agrotextile, straw mesh or shadow mesh. Thanks to this, the plant will not be damaged by frost or strong, drying winds.
In spring, it is worth removing the withered or damaged shoots, but cautious – too intense cutting can delay development. Over time, when the conifer grows, it’s worth it start forming and shaping – Not only for aesthetic reasons, but also.
