Essentials of Planting

• Planting may be done perfectly late in the aftrnoon as this would save the plant from immediate excessive transpiration which takes place in day time.

• Provide light shade, if possible to the plant till it is established to prevent shock due to direct exposure to shunshine. This is more essentital during hotter period.

• The soil where the plant is to put must be prepared in advance.

• Plant to be uprooted shpould be watered some time before. Ideal condition is that soil is moist and the plant is dry

• Dig the plant with roots intact and as much as much of earth ball as possible. This gives the plant minimum shock.

• Spread the roots as they grow and do not let them crowd, twist or interlock.

• If a stake is required, stake the plant as soon as the roots are spread out. Do not insert a stake immediately after planting as this is likely to cause greater damage than inserting the stake after the plant is established.

• Hold the plant in the left hand and spread the roots with the right hand. Make a small hole and insert the roots as naturally spread out. The roots must touch the soil firmly, at same time not allowed to get twisted. Gradually put in the soil, holding he plant firmly and firm it.
A mistake generally committed is to firm the soil only after all the soil has been put. This sometimes leaves air pockets near the roots which is fatal for the plant. Firming should not postponed till the end except for seedlings, cuttings or small plants.

• After the last lot of soil mixture has been added, firm all around the plant. In case of bigger plants, soil may be firmed with root.

• After planting water gently with a fine rose.

• After planting put the plant in shade or cover with light shaded matarial like straw or newspapers or straw matresses known as ‘hoglas', if possible, to avoid excessive evaporation. Excessive cold or frost is equally harmful.

• Water regularly till the tree is well established.