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Hedge Planting: Container vs. Roots
from: Lawn and Garden MagicThe importance of plating a hedge properly can't be overemphasized because it ensures the hedge will be more tolerant of unfavorable conditions, and guarantees much less maintenance in the long run. However, before deciding on which planting techniques you'll use, you should consider a few factors. These include:
* How the plant was grown at the nursery.
* The soil type and drainage characteristics.
* Container planting versus root planting
Root Planting
Bare root plants are kept on the shelf, not in a pot, which means the roots are usually loose and ready to be planted. Bare root planting is simply planting hedges by placing their bare roots into the ground. These plants tend to be less expensive because they're less costly to produce, store, and ship. Some types of hedges respond well to bare root planting, but a few disadvantages should be considered as well.
One disadvantage is that hedges that are planted bare rooted usually need more initial care. Since the roots need time to adjust to their new environment, they'll need more frequent watering, and sometimes staking, depending on the type and size of the shrub.
Another disadvantage is that the range of shrub sizes available for bare root planting is limited because it's more difficult to move larger hedges with bare roots. Now, taking these disadvantages into consideration, bare root planting wouldn't be a good choice for anyone who doesn't want to put so much maintenance into their hedges, or for those who are planning to plant large shrubs.
Despite the disadvantages, lots of people choose bare root planting, usually because of cost. Therefore, when planting hedges that are bare rooted, here are some planting tips to consider:
* Bare rooted hedges should be planted from mid-November to mid-March in most parts of the United States.
* Remove the packing material from the roots carefully.
* The roots should be rinsed and dead or damaged roots carefully clipped.
* Soak the roots for at least an hour before planting.
* When digging the hole, dig at least two feet wider than the root system and deep enough so that the soil doesn't solidify around the roots.
* Once planted, make sure the shrub is standing up straight, and then slowly saturate the soil.
* Be sure to keep the soil moist for at least one year after bare root planting.
Container Planting
Container grown shrubs are removed from their containers and then placed into the ground. These shrubs were grown in planters and aren't considered bare root plants. There are, of course, advantages and disadvantages to container grown planting, as well.
When using container grown shrubs, one advantage is that 100% of the plant's root system is present in the container. Another advantage is that they can be planted anytime throughout the year. It's not necessary for plants to be dormant when planting container grown plants. However, where there are advantages as well as disadvantages.
The main disadvantage to planting container grown plants is the potential for deformed roots. This is commonly known as "rootbound" plants. These shrubs have roots circling inside the container, and the tangled roots will thus prevent further growth and development of the shrub. This problem must be corrected before planting or the shrub will likely experience several adverse effects, such as:
* Slow growth and establishment
* Death of the shrub
Some important things to remember when planting a container grown shrub include:
Untangling the root system is a crucial step in planting the container grown shrub. Your shrub will show no growth or could even die if the root system is not untangled.
Water directly after planting. Hedges need moist soil for at least the first year after it's planted. Make sure the location of the newly planted hedge has adequate drainage.
Space hedges evenly. If hedges aren't spaced evenly, you'll have a hedge with holes and thus it won't block the wind or provide any privacy. Always remember that your hedge will be in place for many years, so be sure to plant the shrubs correctly.
Whether you chose bare root plants for your new hedges, or container grown plants, your hedge will serve many purposes. Hedges are pleasing to look at, while providing privacy, blocking the wind and noise and maintaining a habitat for birds and other wildlife.
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