Top 10 Japanese Maple Tree Varieties
In this article we cover the top 10 varieties of Japanese Maple trees and their features. Before you make a decision, check out the various types and which one would suit you best.
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We all love to plant in spring. It is a great time for us to plant the plants we love. Spring planting allows us to enjoy the spring blooms and the sun warming the earth. It is a wonderful time of year to be outside in nature prepping our gardens, prettying our yards, and shaking off the winter cold and dreariness. So, what should we plant in spring?
Plant Grass Seed in Spring
Spring is a great time to plant both cool season and warm season grasses. Soil temperatures around 65 or 70 degrees are best for warm season grasses, while cool season grasses prefer soil temperatures between 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to Plant Grass Seed
When seeding a new lawn, start with a ph test to ensure your pH is in the ideal range of 6.5 to 7.5. Next prepare the soil by removing any weeds and plants and grading if necessary.
- Now you are ready to broadcast your grass seed of choice at the recommended rate. A seed broadcaster is ideal for even distribution and a great looking lawn right from the start. Spread seed on moist ground for best results.
- Seeds can be covered with a thin layer of soil or straw to help hold them in place. Lesco Seed Starter is also a high-quality top dressing that helps keep seeds moist longer while also keeping them in place.
- Water is the key. Newly broadcasted grass seed should be watered at a light mist setting 2 to 3 times per day. Once the seeds are germinated you can use a heavier setting and reduce watering to about once daily.
Plant Trees and Shrubs in Spring
Plant evergreen and deciduous trees and bushes in spring like the Thuja Green Giant. Hotter climates should plant in late winter/early spring whereas cold climates will need to wait at least until the ground thaws to start planting.
The goal is always to try and have plants established before the summer heat if at all possible. Don’t fret if you plant closer to summer though. You’ll just need to be more diligent about watering. Read more information about summer planting.
For most trees and shrubs, as long as the ground is thawed you can plant. Just take into consideration cold-sensitive plants or ones that you are on the line for zone recommendations.
How to Plant Trees and Shrubs
- Choose a location that is ideal for your plant. Consider sunlight, soil, and moisture recommendations for your particular tree or shrub.
- Water your plant in the container so that the soil is moist when you plant it.
- Dig a hold that is about 2 times the width of the root ball of your plant.
- Place your plant in the hole ensuring that it is centered, straight, and even and that the top of the root ball is slightly above the existing soil line.
- Water your plant thoroughly so that water absorbs into the soil all around your tree or bush.
- Backfill the soil around the root ball, packing it in with your hands to remove any air pockets. If you have poor soil, mix in our organic planting mix up to 50% with your native soil.
- Water again! Yes, water, water, water! Water with a hose with no attachments at the base of your plant.
- A 1 to 2 inch layer of mulch in a mound around your plant will help protect the roots and reduce watering needs by allowing the soil to hold on to moisture longer.
Our Most Popular Spring Trees
Our Most Popular Spring Shrubs
Plant Perennials and Annuals in Spring
Spring is the ideal time to plant annual and perennial plants. Annuals are great for adding color to mixed pots, walkways, and borders. Perennials are nice in mixed beds, gardens, and natural landscaping plans.
Plant perennials and annuals the same way I described in how to plant trees and shrubs above. For container planting, choose pots with good drainage, and water when they begin to dry out down to about 2 inches. Measure soil moisture with your finger.
Our Favorite Spring Perennials
Spring is a great time to plant just about anything! From vegetables to fruit trees and ornamental grasses, to grass seed and evergreens, to shade and flowering trees and everything in between, get a spring in your step and spruce up your yard in spring. Spring planting makes you feel wonderful and invigorates your spirit! Now, go get your hands in the dirt and get some sunshine (and some vitamin D)! Happy planting!