Planting a containerised tree

Container grown trees and shrubs can be planted all through the year providing that the ground is not waterlogged or frozen.

However for the very best results plant during the autumn while the soil is still warm from the summer and moist from the autumn rain. Many garden centres replenish their stock of trees and shrubs during the autumn, so look out for fresh plants that will respond well to planting now. It is far better to plant a tree than to leave it languishing in a pot where it may dry out too quickly or deplete its reserves of nutrients.

	Step 1 Decide where you want to plant your tree. Dig out any existing weeds and pay particular attention to any perennial weeds that may persist in the soil. Remove all the roots as deep as possible to prevent them from re-growing.
	Step 2 Improve the soil by incorporating a generous amount of organic Garden Compost. This will enhance the structure of the soil, encourage microbial activity within the soil and improve its moisture retaining and nutrient properties.
	Step 3 Dig a large hole, at least twice the size and depth of the root ball of the tree you are planting. This will provide a generous rooting zone for the roots of your new tree to grow into.
	Step 4 Loosen the base of the hole and mix in a generous amount of Rose, Tree and Shrub Compost with added John Innes. Add a handful of Bone Meal Root Builder to boost the establishment of new roots.
	Step 5 Remove your tree from its pot and tease out the roots so that they grow into the surrounding soil more easily.
	Step 6 Place the root ball of the tree into the planting hole making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the top of the border soil. Fill in around the root ball with a mix of garden soil and Rose, Tree and Shrub Compost with added John Innes.
	Step 7 Firm in gently using your feet. Water well and then mulch over the area above the root ball with a generous layer of Decorative Mini Bark.

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