The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California
15 Basic Ways To Landscape Your Homepage
After you have finally chosen a tree which meets all requirements locate the spot for planting in relation to the entire landscape plan. l)ig a hole at least twice the diameter of the tree's root system. After the soil is removed it should be mixed with about one-fourth its bulk of moist peat moss for best results with new stock.
Follow the instructions given in the section on evergreens when you plant your new tree at the same depth it was in the nursery. Carefully spread all the roots out in their normal position and fill the hole to within a few inches of the top. Soak the replaced soil thoroughly and then fill in the sunken basin with fresh soil to completely fill the hole. You might find it desirable to wire the new tree to stakes for a few weeks and prevent wind damage.
Must shade trees should have their trunks and larger limbs protected with a tree paint which prevents sunburn and damage from riny boring insects. Small trees must be supported by placing a stake alongside to which the trunk is tied at two or more places. This prevents wind damage.
Fast-growing deciduous trees such as poplars, sycamores, maples and elms may be cut back about one-third when they are transplanted. This pruning will assure better rout strength. At the time of purchase ask your nurseryman to prune the new tree so ir begins to grow with a good basic framework of branches.
Proper irrigation and fertilization after planting are essential. An adequate basin should be provided around each tree. Irrigate at least once a week with a thorough and deep soaking. Penetration of water to a depth of at least three feet is essential.
Apply generous applications of well rotted manure and commercial fertilizers, lirst applications should be made just before growth commences, while another in midsummer is beneficial. The soil around the tree should be cultivated just enough to prevent pack ing in the irrigation basin.
Deciduous Shrubs
DECIDUOUS SHRUBS ARE woody plants which lose their leaves in the fall. They vary greatly in size, shape, habit of growth, and, unlike trees, develop several stems instead of a tingle trunk.
More seasonal than evergreens, deciduous shrubs provide an air of light grace and often an abundance of cut flowers. In most sections of the country deciduous shrubs constitute the bulk of plants used in landscaping home grounds.
