About a month ago I had the pleasure of helping a pre-school class in Eugene plant their own blueberries. Prior to planting we discussed what inputs plants need to survive and how bees help blueberries produce larger berries and higher yields through cross pollination. The children loved planting their own plants and were excited to take them home and grow them on. The best question of the day was “do hotdogs grow on trees?” I imagine there could be big business in that so I will have to look into it.
We have had some substantial rain fall here in the valley and we have started digging our ball & burlap material. Today the crew is working on leylandii cypress, otto luyken laurel, and schipka laurel. When we get a solid frost and the deciduous trees drop their leaves we will be able to start digging those as well. Let us know if there is something specific you would like
In the nursery trade b&b is short for ball and burlap. We can usually begin digging our field stock in late October but the timing is based primarily on weather conditions. It is necessary to let the ground get wet enough so that the root ball of the plant holds together without cracking or breaking. In the fall as temperatures get cooler and the days shorter plants head into winter dormancy so digging this time of year puts much less stress on the plant. We offer a wide selection of field grown plant material including conifers, shrubs, and shade trees.
When you purchase a plant that has been dug in ball and burlap fashion you want to handle the ball carefully and not drop it. Breaking or cracking the ball will increase the mortality of your plant.
We use burlap and Jute Twine that biodegrades so it isn’t necessary
A cut Christmas tree is a great tradition until you consider how much you pay for them and compare it to the few weeks you actually decorate with them. Instead you can buy a live tree that is comparable in price and with a little work it can transition from your holiday centerpiece to a beautiful addition to your landscape.
When is a good time to plant? This is a common question that I am asked by customers and random people at cookouts and dinner parties. Many people think that you only plant in fall or spring. In my experience this isn't the case. I have planted in July and August and the plants have grown and done well. If you plant in summer the key is to water the root ball once every three days to the point of saturation. I usually turn the hose on very low and lay it at the base of the plant and let it run for about an hour. This allows for a deep watering that will sustain the plant through the warm summer days. With a little fastidiousness you can plant when you are inspired and not by the seasons.