Planting Instructions for Trees and Shrubs in Boise, Idaho

At Aloha Home and Garden, we take pride in offering high-quality plants selected to thrive in the Boise and Treasure Valley area. Proper planting is one of the most important steps in helping your new trees, shrubs, and landscape plants establish strong roots and remain healthy for years to come.

Gardening in Boise comes with unique challenges, including alkaline soils, hot summers, and dry conditions. Following the proper planting techniques below will give your plants the best possible start and help them adapt to their new environment.

These instructions apply to most trees and shrubs. Some plants, such as rhododendrons and other specialty plants, require specific planting methods.

Step 1: Dig the Proper Size Planting Hole

Measure the depth and width of the plant's root ball before digging.

For most shrubs and smaller trees:

• Dig the hole approximately twice as wide as the root ball.

• Dig the hole approximately one and one-half times as deep as the root ball.

For larger trees (2-inch caliper or larger):

• Dig the hole only as deep as the root ball.

Heavy root balls can settle after planting, causing the top of the root ball to sink below ground level. With very few exceptions, trees and shrubs should never be planted deeper than their original growing depth. Planting too deeply can damage the tree's cambium layer and may eventually lead to plant decline or death.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil Mixture

For Boise-area soils, which are often alkaline, adding organic material can help improve soil conditions around newly planted trees and shrubs.

Choose one of the following planting mixtures:

Option 1:

• 1/3 peat moss

• 1/3 Ferti-lome Ultimate Potting Soil

• 1/3 existing soil removed from the planting hole

Option 2:

• 1/2 Ferti-lome Ultimate Potting Soil

• 1/2 existing soil removed from the planting hole

Adding peat moss can help improve soil structure and may help lower the pH of alkaline soils, creating a better environment for plant roots.

Thoroughly mix the ingredients together in the planting hole.

Step 3: Position the Plant Correctly

Remove enough of the soil mixture so the plant fits comfortably in the hole.

Before planting, check the depth carefully:

• The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil or slightly above grade (approximately 1 inch maximum).

• Never bury the trunk flare or the top of the root ball.

For container-grown plants:

• Always remove the plastic container before planting.

For balled and burlapped plants:

• Do not remove the burlap or wire cage. The roots will grow through and around these materials, and/or removing them can damage the root ball.

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Step 4: Inspect and Correct Root Problems

Occasionally, container-grown plants may develop large roots circling around the outside of the root ball.

If this occurs:

• Use a sharp knife or similar tool.

• Make vertical cuts from the top of the root ball to the bottom approximately every 6 inches.

This encourages roots to grow outward into the surrounding soil.

For balled and burlapped trees, you may find plastic twine around the trunk. Always remove any twine or material wrapped around the trunk before planting.

Step 5: Water Before Backfilling

Place the plant in the hole and check that it is positioned correctly, with the best side facing the desired viewing area.

Before backfilling:

1. Fill the planting hole with water.

2. Add Ferti-lome Root Stimulator according to label directions.

3. Mix thoroughly.

4. Allow the plant to sit in the solution for approximately 20–25 minutes.

If the water disappears before backfilling, add more water—but do not add additional root stimulator.

Step 6: Backfill and Finish Planting

Use the remaining soil mixture to fill around the plant.

As you backfill:

• Firm the soil gently with the heel of your foot to eliminate large air pockets.

• Avoid compacting the soil too heavily.

When finished, the soil around the plant should be level with or slightly higher than the surrounding landscape.

Step 7: Add Mulch and Begin Proper Watering

Apply a layer of bark mulch around the plant to:

• Help retain moisture

• Reduce soil temperature fluctuations

• Control weeds

Keep mulch away from direct contact with the trunk or stems.

Proper watering during the first growing season is essential for helping new plants establish healthy root systems.

Planting success starts with proper preparation. If you have questions about selecting plants, improving your soil, or caring for your new landscape, the team at Aloha Home and Garden is here to help Boise-area gardeners grow with confidence. If you need further help, stop by our garden center located at 4291 S. Cloverdale Rd. in Boise, or give us a call at 208.350.6888