How to Plant Potted Plants

Potted plants are greenhouse-grown and more tender than their bare-root counterparts. When your plant arrives, very carefully remove it from the packaging. It should arrive moist but will need a drink when it arrives at your home. Be sure the soil is completely moist.

First, harden off your plants:

DO NOT set your potted plant out in direct sunlight right away. Harden it off first by giving it a few hours of sun in a protected location, increasing the amount of direct sun each day. If temperatures drop below freezing, move it to a frost-free area. Once your plant is properly acclimated, it’s ready for a permanent home.

Keep in mind the following as you select your spot for planting:

Sun exposure: Sun loving plants generally require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Shade plants may need varying degrees of shade, from dappled to full.

Soil requirements: All of our plants do best in well-drained soil. Heavy clay or sandy soils need to be amended with compost or topsoil for healthy growth.

Mature size: Note the size of your plant before you put it in the ground. Space your plants according to their expected size at maturity.

How to plant potted berries and plants:

Dig a planting hole deep and wide enough to accommodate the existing root system, leaving room for growth. Be sure to space your plant the proper distance from others in the area.
Remove the tree or plant from its pot. Loosen the root ball with your fingers to gently spread out the roots. Place the tree plant a little bit high in the hole, keeping in mind that the soil will settle.
Refill the planting hole with soil and carefully tamp around the roots to remove any air pockets.
Thoroughly water the plant.
Mulch over the roots to retain moisture and keep weeds down, taking care to keep the mulch a few inches away from the main stem. A blanket of 4-6” is ideal.
Monitor the moisture level of the soil and water when needed.

If you must delay planting until the weather breaks, read our article, for more details: