Planting Refresher For Gardeners: New or Long Timers  

S.O.I.L.S. Sequence-Ready Garden, Purchase, Install, Care  

S. -Scope-evaluation of site
Check everything natural and manmade, project impact on entire area and beyond

O. -Order-sequence of events
Delineate area-soil sample test-control existing plants as needed, prepare ground, select purchase, install, water, and stabilize plants

I. -Intermingle-preparing ground, raising 6" above surroundings
Methods-rototilling or spading-4 separate times-each add two inches of amendments at time
Amendments-organic (leaf mold, compost, peat moss) inorganic (traction sand, pea gravel)
Amount-approximately 2 cu. yd. per 100 sq. ft. of garden area
Rake for positive drainage slant away from structures

L.-Liveliness-health of plant
Select-check leaf, stems-consistency, pot soil moisture, look for insects / diseases on plant or in soil, stem twig branch damage   
Installation-remove any damged part, water plant  in pot, dig hole 3X diameter roots, gentlely remove plant shake off soil, check roots, position in hole slightly higher than grown in pot, backfill

S. -Safeguard-transition from nursery to home landscape
Water-immediately after planting, check to avoid any wilting
Fertilize-monthly 1/2 label rate use water soluble
Mulch-composted products only 1 - 2” herbaceous, 3-4” woodies
Deadhead-remove fading flowers