Pick the Right Spot

Plant where it will do the most good:

• Where there is a high likelihood of success

• Where invasives were removed

• Bare or eroded slopes

Low-diversity or high-visibility areas
Note: Work around existing native plants and protect what’s already thriving.

Plant at the Right Time of Year

• Plant October – February so roots can grow before summer heat.  If irrigation is available, planting can continue through early spring.

Choose the Right Plants

• Use native species suited to the site’s light, soil, and moisture.

• Choose smaller container sizes—they establish faster.

• Avoid nursery cultivars or non-native species.

Plant Correctly

• Dig the hole as deep as the pot and twice as wide.

• Use your tool handle to check the hole depth.

• Loosen roots around the root ball (“tickle” them gently).

• Set the plant in place and check that the top of the soil in the pot is level with the ground.

  • If the plant sits too low, lift it out and add soil underneath.

  • If it sits too high, dig a little deeper.

• Backfill and press soil firmly to remove air pockets.

Water

• Water each plant as soon as possible after planting to settle the soil.  Keep the area moist (not soggy) through the first growing season.

Mulch for Protection

• Apply 3–6 inches of mulch to hold moisture, block weeds, and reduce erosion.

• Keep mulch 4 inches away from the stem or trunk.

• Use local, clean mulch—free of trash and invasive species.

Keep It Growing

• Water regularly during the first 1–3 years.

• Remove invasives competing with young plants.

• Check for erosion and replace mulch where needed.

• Replant next season if needed.

• Take pictures to document progress.