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How to Plant a Shrub


If you've ever had shrubs that didn't plant well, and perhaps even died, take a look at how to plant them well.

Start off with the basics, something to dig with, some water and fertilizer and of course, your new shrub - this is Callistemon viminalis - "Little John".


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Dig the hole twice the width of the pot and to the same depth as the root ball. (Note: I usually would mix 1 part of this soil with 1 part cow manure and 1 part soil improver. In this case though, as it's an Australian native shrub, they're not big on fertiliser so I'll just stick to the blood 'n bone.

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Transplant the shrub into the hole teasing any roots out if it's badly rootbound. Half-fill the hole with water and then backfill with the soil. Water generously after the shrub's been planted and then water regularly, at least every second day for next couple of weeks.

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Make yourself a cup of coffee or herbal tea, stand back and admire the potential vista.

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Comments

When is the best time to transplant lilac shrubs. Mine are about 2 ft high and I need to move them to make room for a new driveway.

Patricia - the best time to move any shrub, tree or plant is when it is starting to enter, or has entered, it's dormancy period. For deciduous plants this is after the leaves have fallen and for evergreens after they have finished flowering and the softwood growth is beginning to harden off. You can transplant them at any time while they're not flowering however you will need to prepare yourself for some intense maintenance.

Their roots will need to be kept moist and they will need a feed of a soluble fertiliser that they can readily intake.

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