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What do I do to care for my plants once they're planted?

The steps for Post-Planting care are as follows:

• After planting make sure soil is firmly consolidated to avoid plant movement or rocking which will inhibit new root development.  After heavy wind and rain, check newly planted stock and firm up again around the stem if necessary. Staking may be necessary depending on site and exposure.
  
  
• Continue to keep the weed growth away from newly establishing plants – they will do a lot better if not competing for moisture or nutrients.  Mulch, weed mat, weed sprays or surface cultivation are possible options.
  
  
• Most species will benefit from the addition of a controlled release fertiliser at the time of planting – we have controlled release fertilisers available (see the section on fertiliser).
  
  
• Many species will benefit from tip pruning to encourage new growth, which will help to produce a bushy specimen.  Where a single trunked tree is desired, leave the main leader intact and tip prune laterals only.
  
  
• Many trees look great if lower branches are pruned off at the trunk to allow a canopy effect.  This also allows for underplanting of your favourite shade loving plants, or a more open garden which will allow more light underneath.
  
  
• Seriously consider how you can get water to newly establishing plants during dry spells (especially in their first few seasons).  This will make a big difference to their growth.
  
  
• In some instances where newly established plants are exposed to persistent prevailing wind, the growth vigour on the windward side can be significantly less than on the leeward side.  Prune back the longer side branches to even up the shape of the tree or shrub and lightly tip back the windward side to encourage new growth.  Remove any dead wood.

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