Landscaper how-to

How to Plant a Shrub

Proper planting helps shrubs thrive.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Proper planting helps shrubs thrive. In short: dig; keep; loosen, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.

  2. Keep the depth the same as the root ball.

  3. Loosen circling roots.

  4. Set the shrub level.

  5. Backfill and firm the soil.

  6. Water deeply and mulch.

Safety reminders for landscapers

  • Wear eye and hearing protection
  • Keep guards on mowers and trimmers
  • Drink water and take breaks in heat
  • Lift heavy materials with your legs or with help

Edging · Mulch · Sod · Aeration · Dethatching · Hardscape: see the full landscaper glossary.

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