New Shrub and Tree Care Guide

Welcome to Barber Landscaping and Lawn Care’s New Plant Care Guide! Congratulations on the addition of new plants, shrubs, and trees to your landscape. Proper care in the early stages is crucial for your plants’ health, beauty, and longevity. This guide is tailored specifically for gardens in climate zones 7a and 7b, ensuring your new green friends thrive from the start.

Watering Essentials

• Frequency: Newly planted trees and shrubs require more attention to watering than established ones. In the first two weeks, water every other day, then gradually reduce to weekly watering until the plants are established. Slow drips at the base of the tree or shrub are the best way to water the plant. The process of root propagation may take months to complete. 95% of plants that die in the first year are due to lack of watering.
• Amount: Ensure that the water reaches deep into the root zone. Typically, 1-2 inches of water per week (including rainfall) is adequate.
• Temperature Considerations: If the temperature is above 85 degrees you will need to slightly increase your watering amount as the temperature rises.

We cannot stress enough that watering your plants is the most important part of keeping your plant healthy.

Mulching and Soil Care

• Mulch: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the new plants, keeping the mulch a few inches away from the stems or trunks to prevent rot.
• Soil Maintenance: Regularly check the soil moisture and adjust watering as needed. Well-draining soil is vital for preventing waterlogged roots.

Do not use any chemicals such as roundup/glyphosate or pre-emergent near the new plant. 

The UGA Extension service recommends that we use native soil to backfill when planting new shrubs or trees. When you use potting soil or compost mix you can create a wet bowl that your plants root sit in and causes root rot.

Fertilization

• Initial Fertilization: Wait until the first growing season has passed before applying fertilizer to give your plants time to adjust and establish. When we install your plant we apply fertilizer that will last for about 3 months.
• Subsequent Care: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer tailored to your specific plant species’ needs in early spring. We Recommend a 16-4-8 slow release fertilizer applied in early spring and summer.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning: Limit pruning to the removal of damaged or dead branches during the first year. This encourages healthy growth and shapes the plant.
• Inspection: Regularly inspect for signs of pests or disease. Early detection is key to managing potential issues.

Seasonal Considerations

• Winter Care: In zones 7a and 7b, protect your plants from extreme cold by adding extra mulch and, if necessary, covering them with burlap or plastic on the coldest nights. If your are facing freezing temperatures we suggest protecting the roots by heavy watering the day before to help insulate the root ball from freezing.
• Summer Stress: Provide adequate water during the hot summer months and consider shade cloth for young, sensitive plants to prevent sunburn.

We at Barber Landscaping are here to support you every step of the way. Should you have any questions or need further assistance with your new plants, don’t hesitate to contact us at 678-684-9084. Let’s ensure your garden remains a thriving, vibrant oasis for years to come!