Planting trees, shrubs and hedging is one of the most rewarding things you can do in a garden, but the difference between a plant that thrives and a plant that struggles often comes down to two factors: timing, and how well the planting itself is done. We plant for landowners across Chester, Cheshire and North Wales, from single specimen trees to full hedge runs and structured shrub borders.
The right time of year
Planting is best done between October and April. The cooler weather and damper conditions through autumn and winter let new roots establish before the more intense growing demands of spring, and the soil holds moisture for longer than it does in summer. Bare-root trees and hedging plants are particularly suited to this window because they are lifted while dormant and put straight back into the ground.
Container-grown plants can be planted at any time of the year, but they still do best in autumn or winter for the same reasons. The container holds the root ball intact, so the disturbance at planting is less significant, but the establishing roots still appreciate the cooler conditions. In summer, container-grown plants need very regular watering through the first season to get them through.
How we plant
A good planting hole is wider than people think and not as deep. We dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball, score the sides to prevent glazing, and break up the base to allow roots to penetrate downward. The plant goes in at the level it was previously growing, never deeper. Bare-root plants get the roots spread out properly, container-grown plants get the root ball teased apart at the edges to encourage outward growth rather than continuing to circle.
Staking for trees is done with a short, low stake at around a third of the height of the trunk, not the tall stakes that hold the whole tree rigid. The aim is to let the trunk flex in the wind so it builds proper taper and strength. Watering in well at planting and through the first season is what carries the plant through, and we will leave a clear written note on watering for the customer.
Relocating trees and shrubs
Any tree or shrub will experience some stress when it is uprooted, but the impact of transplanting can be reduced significantly with the right preparation and technique. Younger plants and trees are far more likely to survive being relocated than older, more established specimens, where the disturbed root system simply cannot support the existing canopy. We will give a plain view on whether a specific tree or shrub is a sensible candidate for relocation rather than starting work and discovering halfway through that the answer should have been no.
At Absolute Tree Care and Gardens we advise, guide, plant and relocate, where possible and advisable, bulbs, shrubs, young and mature trees. We are happy to take on a single specimen planting or a phased project across a larger plot.
Credentials
ARB Approved Contractor, City and Guilds qualified, fully insured.
Free no-obligation quote
For a free no-obligation quote on planting, hedging or relocation anywhere across Chester, Cheshire and North Wales, call Daniel Gilfoyle on 07872 394 540 or 01244 314 065, or email info@absolutetreecareandgardens.co.uk. We come out, look at the planting position, and confirm a written price and plan before any work starts.
