- 1). Select shrubs and plants. Consider plants' mature sizes and maintenance requirements, such as required trimming and drought tolerance. Select plants that do well in your soil type. Native plants are often a low-maintenance choice. Choose colors that coordinate with your home.
- 2). Conduct a soil test. Take six to eight 6-inch-deep soil samples in the planting area. Mix samples in a clean bucket and fill soil test box according to directions. Soil tests are available through county extension offices and at most home and garden centers.
- 3). Add fertilizer and other soil amendments as recommended by the soil test results. Till or spade amendments thoroughly into the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches.
- 4). Dig a hole the same depth as the plant's root ball and at least twice as wide as the root ball. The root ball's top should be level with the ground surface. Remove any wire or root binding material before planting.
- 5). Back-fill the planting hole with soil and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets.
- 6). Form a 2- to 3-inch ring of soil around planting hole to hold water and prevent runoff.
- 7). Apply a 3-inch thick layer of mulch that extends to the ends of plant branches to retain moisture and regulate root temperature.
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