-Dig a hole that is 2-3X the width of the pot, as deep as the pot is tall. It is a good practice to leave a small mound of soil in the center, to help keep the plant from sinking after soil settling. The base of the stem(s) should be level with the ground after planting and watering.  

-Remove your plant from it’s container by gently compressing the sides, laying it horizontally and sliding it out. Avoid handling by the leaves and stems if possible.  
-If the plant is “rootbound,” with a dense tangle of roots at the bottom, gently pull them apart before planting. A garden hose on the shower setting can help, ideally over the hole so that any loosened potting soil is kept with the plant. Some minor damage is ok. Many of our plants will not be rootbound, as it is better for their transition into their new home and long-term health.  

-Once your roots are nice and loose, place the plant in the center of the hole, distributing any longer roots around evenly.   

-Backfill the hole with your local soil, watering heavily throughout the process. Note how this affects the plants height and adjust accordingly to keep the base of the stem(s) level with the ground.  

-Spread 1-2 inches of mulch over the disturbed area, without leaving any material against the base of the stem(s). There are many mulch options; leaves, cardboard (uncoated), straw, pine shavings, rocks, or traditional wood mulch all work to conserve soil moisture and inhibit weed growth.   

-After planting it typically takes 1-2 growing seasons for plants to become established. Over this time it is important to monitor the condition of your plants and how they are reacting to their new home. If planted in appropriate conditions, one deep watering per week during this period is typically adequate, potentially more in hot and dry conditions, or less when rainy.   

If you run into any issues, check out the native plant resources page, or reach out to us at wildscapeblooms@gmail.com.   

Remember that this plant is now part of your local ecosystem! Pesticides are typically not recommended as they kill our native insects, which our native birds and other wildlife rely on for food. Additionally, many native species are sensitive to commonly used herbicides.   

Remember that plants are great at teaching patience! “In their first year they sleep, in their second they creep, and in their third they leap”