Landscaping Tips:

Establishing native trees and shrubs

By Tom Heald, extension educator
University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service

            Landscapers and gardeners hear the term “establishment,” but what does it mean? 

            Establishment is the time when a plant is spreading its root system and becoming balanced in the ability of its foliage and roots to support each other. 

            Commercially sold plants are typically grown in containers. A one-gallon container-grown plant will take about a year to establish. Shrubs in a 3- to 5-gallon container will need about two years to become established. 

            Container-grown trees follow the establishment rule of thumb of one year for transplanting and an additional year for each inch of trunk diameter. 

            Care is needed to develop the root system during the critical time of establishment. Even though many native trees and shrubs are excellent at withstanding periods of drought, they have been grown in potting soil and should be watered as one would any other plant.

            During hot weather, the plants should receive three good soakings a week, while as little as one watering a week will suffice in more moderate conditions.

            Roots don’t grow into dry ground, so water both the potting soil and surrounding ground.          Don’t leave the plant sitting in a hole full of water surrounded by slow-to-drain clay. Plants can and do drown! Poke a finger in the ground to check for moisture in both the potting soil and surrounding ground to determine if the plant needs water. 

            Lastly, don’t forget to water next winter. Evergreens should receive a good soaking once a month during dry periods while deciduous trees and shrubs should be watered once or twice during the winter.

                Most native plants don’t absorb water through their leaves. Don’t spray the leaves, but focus on watering the roots. This is where water uptake occurs.

          Persons with questions may contact their county CES office or Tom Heald at (307) 235-9400 or theald@natronacounty-wy.gov.

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