Super Simple Guide to Transplanting & Establishing Native Plant Seedlings

Storing plants until planing:

• Keep plants in a partially shady area to prevent drying out.
• Keep the soil moist but not soggy.

Transplanting

• Before transplanting, water the root mass of the seedlings.
• Dig a hole as deep as the plant pot and slightly wider than the pot. 
• Fertilizer or compost is not required.
• If roots are coming out of the plant pot bottom, gently untangle them.
• Do not pull the seedling out of its cup by the stem as this can cause damage
• Tip the entire plant horizontally and gently squeeze the bottom of the plant pot to loosen the sides from the root mass inside.
• Tip the plant slightly upside down and let it slide out of the plant pot. 
• If needed, push from the bottom of the plant cup to nudge the root mass out of the pot. 
• Gently rough up the roots so they face out and downwards.
• Place the plant inside the hole. The top of the potting soil should be aligned horizontally with the top of the ground.
• Gently press surrounding dirt around the root mass. Avoid compacting the dirt.
• Water the plant when done (focus on watering the roots, not the green foliage)

Mulch

• Mulch isn’t required but it helps fight weeds and retain moisture.
• Place a 2” layer of straw, leaf material, or shredded wood around the plant.
• Do not place mulch right up against the seedlings stems to avoid rot.

First growing season:

• Keep soil around the plant moist for the first two weeks. Deep, occasional watering is better than frequent shallow water for better root growth. 
• If there is a severe drought during the plant’s first year, make sure seedlings get supplemental water as they continue to establish.
• If you notice rabbit or squirrel damage to your plants, placing a small cage (example: chicken wire) around the seedling for the first growing year can help the plant establish.