Compost, Soils and More
CategoriesTip and Advice From ClicknPlant by

Bringing a new plant home is exciting! Whether it’s a fruit tree, a flowering shrub, or a beautiful native like fynbos, planting it correctly is essential for healthy growth and long-term success. At ClicknPlant Nursery, we want to help you give your new plants the best start possible.

Follow these simple steps to ensure your plants thrive in your garden:

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

  • Sunlight: Check your plant’s sunlight needs—full sun, partial shade, or shade—and pick a spot accordingly.
  • Space: Allow enough room for your plant to grow to its full size without crowding.

Step 2: Prepare the Planting Hole

  • Dig a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball or pot.
  • Loosen the soil around the hole to help roots spread easily.
  • Mix some organic potting and bone meal into the soil to boost nutrients.

Step 3: Remove the Plant Carefully

  • Gently take your plant out of its pot.
  • If the roots are circling tightly, tease them out gently to encourage outward growth.
  • Trim any damaged or excessively long roots.

Step 4: Plant at the Right Depth

  • Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above ground level.
  • Avoid planting too deep, which can suffocate roots.

Step 5: Backfill and Firm the Soil

  • Fill the hole with soil mixed with potting soil, gently firming it around the roots to remove air pockets.
  • Avoid compacting the soil too much — roots still need space to grow.
  • Place some compost on top

Step 6: Water Thoroughly

  • Give your new plant a deep watering right after planting.
  • This settles the soil and hydrates the roots.

Step 7: Mulch

  • Apply a 5-7 cm layer of organic mulch (bark chips, straw, or compost) around the plant—but keep mulch away from the trunk or stem.
  • Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Step 8: Care and Monitor

  • Water regularly, especially during the first few months.
  • Protect young plants from harsh sun, strong winds, and pests as needed.
  • Fertilise lightly after the plant shows new growth.

Bonus Tips:

  • Avoid fertilising immediately at planting; wait a few weeks until roots start establishing.
  • Stake tall or top-heavy plants for support, but remove stakes after one growing season.
  • Label your plants to keep track of their care needs.

At ClicknPlant Nursery, we want your garden to flourish!
Explore our wide range of healthy, ready-to-plant trees and shrubs at www.clicknplant.co.za.

Happy planting! 🌿🌳