Landscaping in the Sierra
My previous article about landscaping was published last month and I discussed planting flowers so that they can survive in our harsh environment and flourish.
Many of the same issues affect planting trees and shrubs, as do in planting flowers.. The main concern with any of the plants in the eastern Sierra (that are not native) is that the lack of moisture, intense sun and severe wind. All of these elements will cause challenges to have successful planting.
First of all, you must amend the soil so that it can hold moisture. Our pumice soil drains very quickly and will dry out soon after watering. There are many products available that can be used when planting like Gro Mulch or other soil product that helps to hold moisture and add more nutrients to our sandy soil.
The planting is very important and how the hole is prepared before planting. A general rule of thumb is to dig the hole twice as big and deep as the root ball. After digging the hole, place the soil conditioner in the bottom of the hole several inches deep. This way the roots have a nice layer to establish their new growth into. When the root ball is settled into the bottom of the hole, fill the sides with a mixture of soil and soil amendment. Pack the soil gently around the roots and press it down while filling the hole. Try to keep from damaging the roots as much as possible.
Once the soil is in place, water generously several times while pressing the soil down with a tool such as the end of a rake. By pressing the soil while watering, this removes air pockets that can prevent the roots from establishing correctly. After watering thoroughly then mix a solution with vitamin B-1 to help with root shock and to stimulate root growth. This technique is used for trees and shrubs. Check with the local nurseries for what trees and shrubs are “known” to grow in the area. As it is frustrating to see a beautiful tree or shrub that has a marginal application in this zone and then have it die are going to the trouble to plant and nurture it.
Another very important part of the process is to stake trees correctly. With the severe wind, snow and sometimes rain, a securely staked tree is the only way it will survive. A tree such as an aspen, poplar, willow or cottonwoods are all flexible but are also delicate. Two to three staking poles buried in the ground securely and tied to the tree with the rubber type tree holds that are nailed to the stack, with keep your newly planted tree from being blown over or crushed by a pile of snow, which are inevitable her in the Sierra.
Even when the trees have been in the ground for several seasons, they still need to be staked to protect them from all the elements.
Evergreens are sturdier and can handle heavy snow and high winds. They make a nice wind break and are also nice as a privacy screen.
Don’t plant trees to close to the house as the will grow and cause problems from their roots lifting the ground to being a fire hazard.
When it comes to deciding on shrubs for your home there are several things to consider.
First thing is the exposure and whether or not the plant is appropriate for the sun or shade.
Another big factor is if the snow sheds onto the plants. Very few shrubs can survive a big heavy load of snow on them, but some can with some expected breakage. Junipers are strong and can withstand lots of abuse. There is a wide variety of Junipers so the experts at our local nurseries can help in selecting the right plant for the location.
Shrub branches can be tied up in order to keep them from breaking. You will see in the fall, twine wrapped bushes around town, preparing them for the onslaught to come.
With special care and thoughtful preparation a high altitude garden can be a success. It’s a lovely sight to see a beautiful garden set against the majestic mountains as the backdrop.
Enjoy the summer and happy planting!
