To plant a tree...			...the right way
			by Diana Roberts

Spring is a time when the thoughts of every gardener turn to their garden. We watch bulbs poke their heads above the soil and we are once again amazed as buds gently open on trees and shrubs. It is also, at this time of year, when we find plants which did not make it through our harsh winters. Soon, it is time to go out and buy that perfect plant to fill the void. If you are not quite sure how to plant trees and shrubs the right way, then you are not alone.

Step 1 - the hole should be twice the depth and twice the diameter of the pot- note the black tape

There are some very easy steps to take to ensure your plant will grow and thrive for years to come. The first thing is to be certain the tree or shrub you have chosen will do well in the location where you wish to plant it. A heat-loving juniper will not do well on the shady north side of your house, just as the moisture-loving cedar may die if it is planted where there is a severe lack of water.

The black tape on the shovel handle is at twice the height of the pot - a good trick to remember

The hole you dig for your plant should be twice as big around and twice as deep as the pot in which your plant is growing. In hard clay or rocky soil the digging may be difficult, but the rewards of digging deep will be obvious as your tree flourishes. If the soil down in the hole is dry you should fill the hole with water and let it stand till the water soaks into the ground. In the springtime, the ground is usually saturated so you may not need to put water in the hole. Next you will need some rich soil to partially fill the hole.