Planting Guide & Warranty Overview
Planting trees and shrubs correctly is the key to long-term success. Use the following steps—based on best practices and New England growing conditions—to ensure your plants establish strong, healthy roots.
This guide works for most container-grown and balled & burlapped (B&B) trees and shrubs.
Step-by-Step Planting Instructions
1. Prepare the Planting Hole
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Dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball
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Make the hole just as deep as the root ball
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Ensure the bottom of the hole is firm, undisturbed soil
2. Place the Plant Correctly
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Carefully place the plant in the hole
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Make sure the root ball rests on firm, undisturbed soil
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Once properly positioned, remove all string
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Cut the burlap down to the top of the wire cage
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If possible, remove the top third to half of the wire cage using bolt or wire cutters
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If the root ball is in danger of falling apart, leave the wire basket intact
3. Backfill with Original Soil
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Backfill with the soil removed from the hole
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Lightly tamp the soil to remove air pockets
4. Build a Water Basin
- Create a 3–4″ soil ring around the plant
- This helps water soak directly into the root ball
5. Water Thoroughly
- Fill the basin and allow water to soak slowly
- Continue watering following our Watering Guide
6. Mulch Properly
- Apply 2–3″ of mulch
- Keep mulch off the trunk/base of the plant
7. Aftercare
- Follow our watering recommendations for the next 1–5 years
- Fertilize lightly with Start-N-Grow or Bio-Tone
Warranty Overview
Countrybrook Farms provides a 3-month warranty on
trees and shrubs purchased at regular price.
The warranty covers:
- Survival of the plant
- Replacement or store credit for the purchase price
Not covered:
- Annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, roses, vines, fruit trees, sod
- Plants sold at 40% off or more
- Weather damage, insects, disease, negligence
- Plants that die due to under-watering or water bans
- Transplanted plants
- Labor or delivery costs
Receipts or records in our database are required.
Do not dig up plants without instruction.