When customers ask when to plant, the short answer is usually “as soon as possible!” However, successful planting hinges on two critical factors: the time of year and proper acclimation for plants that have been kept in a shade house.
Here is a plan you can provide to customers, covering seasonal timing, acclimation, and post-planting care instructions.
The best time to plant is typically spring or early fall, when temperatures are mild. However, with proper care and acclimation, you can successfully plant throughout the entire season.
1. Hardening Off: Acclimating Sun-Loving Plants
The most crucial step for plants that have been grown in a shade house is hardening off (acclimating them to full sun). Skipping this step causes leaf burn and shock.
Instructions for the customer:
- Days 1-3: Place the plant in a fully shaded outdoor spot.
- Days 4-5: Move the plant to a location that receives only 1-2 hours of early morning sun.
- Days 6-7: Move to a spot with 3-4 hours of sun, gradually increasing exposure over the week.
- Day 8: The plant is ready for its final sunny location in the ground.
Note: If the weather is extremely hot during this process, proceed more slowly. A fully acclimated plant can be safely planted any time of year.
2. When to Plant: A Seasonal Plan
Here is a timeline based on the Black Hills growing season:
May & Early June (Ideal Planting Time)
- Conditions: Cool soil, moderate temperatures, often good moisture.
- When to Plant: Immediately after the last frost date (usually around May 15th for the Black Hills).
- Care: Water thoroughly after planting. Plants establish quickly in the cool spring soil.
Late June, July, & August (The Hot Season)
- Conditions: High heat, intense sun, dry winds. Planting during this time is more challenging but possible with care.
- When to Plant: Ideally, wait until the sun-loving plant is fully acclimated (hardened off).
- Care: Water deeply every day for the first two weeks. Planting in the evening is best so the plant has the cool night to recover before the day’s heat. Use mulch heavily to keep roots cool and moist.
September & October (Second Ideal Planting Time)
- Conditions: Cooling temperatures, shorter days, ground is still warm enough for root growth.
- When to Plant: This is the best time for planting trees and shrubs in the Black Hills. Plants focus their energy on root development rather than producing new leaves or flowers.
- Care: Continue watering until the ground freezes solid (usually late October/November). The plants will store energy for a strong spring start.
November (End of Season)
- Conditions: Freezing nights, potential snow, ground begins to freeze solid.
- When to Plant: Only if the ground is not frozen and if the plant is a fully dormant, hardy tree or shrub. Perennials are risky.
- Care: Water once deeply and mulch heavily. Ensure all hoses are drained for the winter.
Summary of Care Tips to Provide Customers
- Dig a wide hole, not a deep one.
- Amend the soil if necessary, especially if you have heavy clay.
- Water immediately after planting.
- Mulch heavily (2-3 inches) around the base of the plant to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.