Pot grown plants can be planted all year round.

Ideal time is between October to April nearly all species. Don’t plant in frosty weather as any dug-in frost ‘burns’ the roots and damage the plant. But with a bit more aftercare you can successfully plant May to September. During this drier period ( usually drier period!) plants will need watering to compensate for lack of rain. Before planting, mark out ideally with canes, where the plants are going to be planted.

See Tips and Advice for hedging plant spacings.

Basic steps:
1. Dig a hole about 30% larger than the plant. Remove the plant from its container and ‘tease out’ roots slightly round the root ball. If the planting soil is very poor i.e. dry crumbly and lacking structure, it may be necessary to add leaf mould or garden compost prior to planting. In this case you will need to dig a trench and ‘turn in’ your soil-enriching material.

2. If hole soil looks very dry ‘puddle’ the plant in by filling hole with water. After a couple of minutes the water will have been absorbed. Position the plant in the hole so its soil level is 1 – 2 cms below ground level and replace the soil.

3. Replace dug out soil around the root ball and firm slightly by treading down to compact. Spread out any remaining soil neatly around the plant base.

4. Stake each plant to an upright position with a cane – if planted in a windy location or it appears necessary.

Job done! Plant the next one.