The most common reason planting fails is not the wrong plant choice or lack of watering — it is inadequate soil preparation. Five minutes spent improving the soil before planting can make the difference between plants that thrive and those that merely survive for a season or two.
Step 1: Clear and Dig
Remove all existing vegetation, including the roots of any perennial weeds. Dig the soil to at least 30cm (a full spade depth), breaking up any compacted layers. This is much easier to do before planting than after.
- Remove all perennial weed roots completely — any left will regrow
- Dig to at least 30cm depth — 45cm is better for shrubs and trees
- Break up any hard compacted layers below the topsoil
- Remove all large stones over 3cm diameter
Step 2: Improve the Soil
Work in generous amounts of well-rotted compost or farmyard manure — at least a full bucket per square metre for borders, two buckets for heavy clay or sandy soils. This is the single most effective soil improvement you can make regardless of soil type.
Step 3: Final Preparation
Rake to a fine, crumbly tilth, removing any remaining stones or debris. Apply a balanced granular fertiliser and rake in. Leave to settle for a few days if possible before planting. For spring planting, pre-warming the soil under black polythene for a week can accelerate establishment.
A&T Landscapes prepares ground thoroughly before any planting project across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire. Call 07735 916029 for expert planting help.