Spring Planting Tips From A Greenwich, CT Landscaping Company - J&J Lawn Care LLC
- Jonathan Buckingham
- Feb 4
- 2 min read
Spring is a great time for planting new trees, shrubs, and perennials on your property. We offer expert planting services across Greenwich, Stamford, Darien, and New Cannan. Here are some good tips...
Start With the Right Plant for the Right Place
One of the biggest mistakes we see is choosing plants based on looks alone. Sun exposure, soil type, drainage, and even wind matter more than most people realize. A shrub that loves full sun will never truly perform in a shady corner, no matter how much water or fertilizer it gets. When plants are matched correctly to their environment, they need less maintenance and stay healthier long-term.
(Emerald Green Arborvitaes and Green Giants being installed in Greenwich, CT )
Planting Depth Matters More Than You Think
Deeper is not better. In fact, planting too deep is one of the fastest ways to stress or kill a plant. Roots need oxygen, and burying the root flare can lead to rot and poor growth. We always recommend planting slightly high and letting the soil settle naturally. You want the plant to breathe, not suffocate.
Watering: Consistent Beats Excess
New plantings don’t need constant soaking — they need consistent, deep watering. Light, frequent watering encourages shallow roots, which makes plants weaker over time. A thorough soak a few times a week (depending on weather) helps roots grow deep and strong. If you’re unsure, it’s better to water deeply and less often than a little every day.
Mulch Is a Tool, Not a Decoration
Mulch does more than make beds look clean. It helps regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and prevent weeds. That said, mulch should never be piled up against the base of plants. “Mulch volcanoes” trap moisture where it doesn’t belong and can lead to disease. A clean, even layer—pulled slightly away from stems—is the sweet spot.
Don’t Rush Fertilizer
It’s tempting to fertilize right away, but new plants are already stressed from transplanting. Give them time to establish before introducing nutrients. In many cases, healthy soil and proper watering do more in the first season than fertilizer ever could. When fertilizing, slow and steady always wins.
Be Patient — Landscapes Need Time
This is the hardest advice to hear, but the most important: landscapes grow into themselves. The first year is about root development, not size. By year two and three, properly planted landscapes fill in, mature, and begin to look the way you imagined from day one. Patience early on leads to better results long-term.
If you are interested in our planting or landscaping services reach out to us today for a free consultation. We offer residential landscaping in Greenwich, CT and surrounding areas.
Text or Call: (203) 695-7790
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