A five-gallon plant, commonly sold in nurseries, typically represents a young shrub, perennial, or small tree sapling ready for transplanting. The containers generally hold a root ball about 10.5 to 12.5 inches in diameter and 11 to 12.5 inches tall. Successfully moving this plant requires a precise approach focused on encouraging root establishment in the native soil. Proper preparation of both the planting site and the plant’s root system is necessary for its long-term health.
Determining the Hole Dimensions
The planting hole’s width should be significantly greater than its depth. For a five-gallon plant, the hole should be two to three times the container’s diameter (approximately 21 to 36 inches). This wide area of loosened soil allows the roots to easily spread outward. The depth should be only as deep as the root ball, ensuring the top edge sits level with or slightly above the surrounding soil grade. Planting too deeply is a common error that can cause the root crown to suffocate. If the soil in the hole is compacted, roughing up the sides with a shovel or fork encourages roots to penetrate the surrounding earth.
Readying the Root Ball
Before planting, prepare the root ball, as container-grown plants often develop circling or matted roots. Carefully remove the plant from its container, avoiding pulling it by the main stem. These dense, spiraling roots must be corrected to prevent them from girdling the plant’s trunk. To correct this, use a sharp knife or spade to score the root ball by making four to six vertical slices, about one to two inches deep. After scoring or shaving the outer inch of dense root systems, gently tease the loosened roots outward to orient them for growth.
Placing the Plant and Refilling
Set the prepared plant into the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is slightly elevated above the grade level. This elevated position accounts for settling and maintains proper drainage away from the stem. Backfill the hole using the native soil, as amending the soil can discourage roots from growing beyond the planting area. Fill the hole halfway, then gently tamp it down to eliminate large air pockets without overly compacting the soil. Finish filling the hole and create a slight soil berm just outside the perimeter of the root ball to hold water during initial irrigation.
Immediate Care After Planting
The first watering settles the soil particles around the newly exposed roots. Thoroughly saturate the area within the temporary soil berm, allowing water to seep deep into the soil to moisten the entire root ball. This initial deep soaking is more beneficial than frequent shallow watering, which encourages surface roots. Following this, apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, over the backfilled area. Mulch helps regulate soil temperature, reduces water evaporation, suppresses weeds, and must be kept two to three inches away from the plant’s main trunk to prevent rot.