Planting Instructions
Choose the Right Location
Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day).
Thrives in moist, well-draining soils but tolerates various soil types.
Grows 12-20 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide—ensure enough space for its mature size.
Prepare the Soil
Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.
If the soil is poor, mix in organic compost to improve fertility.
Planting the Tree
Remove the tree from the container and gently loosen the roots.
Position the tree so that the top of the root ball is slightly above the ground level.
Backfill with soil, pressing gently to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting
Water thoroughly right after planting and keep the soil consistently moist during the first year.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base.
Care & Maintenance
Watering
First Year: Water 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rainfall.
After Establishment: Drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring.
Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches.
Pest & Disease Management
Generally pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for scale insects and powdery mildew.
If needed, treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Cold & Heat Tolerance
Hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Prefers moderate moisture levels but can adapt to a range of climates.
Additional Tips: 🌸 Fragrant Blooms – Produces showy white flowers in spring that attract pollinators.
🍂 Seasonal Interest – Leaves turn yellow in fall, adding autumn beauty.
🐝 Wildlife Friendly – Flowers attract bees and butterflies; fruits provide food for birds.
Planting Instructions
Choose the Right Location
Prefers full sun (at least 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).
Thrives in well-draining soil but adapts to sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Can grow 30-60 feet tall and 20-35 feet wide—ensure enough space for its mature size.
Prepare the Soil
Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.
If the soil is poor, mix in organic compost to improve fertility.
Planting the Tree
Remove the tree from the container and loosen the roots.
Position the tree so that the top of the root ball is slightly above the ground level.
Backfill with soil, pressing gently to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting
Water deeply and thoroughly to help the roots establish.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base.
Care & Maintenance
Watering
First Year: Water 2-3 times per week.
After Establishment: Drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring and mid-summer.
Pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches.
Pest & Disease Management
Generally pest-resistant, but monitor for scale insects and leaf spot diseases.
Cold & Heat Tolerance
Hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Tolerates heat, humidity, and drought once established.
Additional Tips: 🍂 Beautiful Fall Color – Leaves turn stunning red, orange, and yellow in autumn.
🍊 Delicious Fruit – Produces sweet, orange persimmons in late summer to fall.
🦌 Wildlife Friendly – Attracts deer, birds, and small mammals with its fruit.
🌳 Long-Lived & Low-Maintenance – Can thrive for 50+ years with minimal care.
The Pawpaw tree (Asimina triloba) is a unique North American native fruit tree, known for its tropical-like custard-flavored fruit and lush green foliage. It thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9 and is an excellent choice for home gardens, edible landscapes, and wildlife-friendly habitats.
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Prefers partial shade when young; mature trees thrive in full sun for better fruit production.
Grows best in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Avoid planting in dry, sandy, or heavy clay soils with poor drainage.
Soil Preparation
Ideal soil pH: 5.5-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Loosen soil and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
Loosen the roots if they appear root-bound.
Position the tree so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Backfill with native soil mixed with compost, gently firming the soil.
Water thoroughly to settle the roots.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Watering
Young Trees: Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) for the first 1-2 years.
Mature Trees: Once established, Pawpaw trees are drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during dry periods.
Fertilization
Spring & Summer: Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or compost to promote growth.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can lead to lush foliage but fewer fruits.
Pollination & Fruiting
Pawpaw trees require cross-pollination for fruit production—plant at least two genetically different trees.
Flowers are pollinated by beetles and flies rather than bees.
Hand-pollination can improve fruit set if natural pollinators are lacking.
Pruning & Maintenance
Minimal pruning is needed. Remove dead, weak, or crossing branches in late winter.
Encourage air circulation by thinning out crowded growth.
Pest & Disease Control
Generally pest-resistant but may attract zebra swallowtail butterfly caterpillars (a benefit for butterfly gardens!).
Monitor for fungal diseases in humid conditions—prune for airflow and avoid overhead watering.
Harvesting
Fruits ripen in late summer to early fall and should be soft to the touch before picking.
Pawpaws bruise easily—handle gently and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Enjoy fresh, in smoothies, or in baked goods!
The Mayhaw tree (Crataegus aestivalis) is a native fruit-bearing tree known for its small, tart berries used in jams, jellies, and syrups. This hardy tree thrives in wetland areas but adapts well to home landscapes. It is an excellent choice for wildlife gardens, edible landscapes, and pollinator-friendly yards.
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily).
Grows best in moist, well-drained soil but tolerates wet, boggy conditions.
Thrives in acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
Soil Preparation
Improve drainage in heavy clay by amending with organic matter (compost or aged pine bark).
In sandy soil, mix in organic compost to improve moisture retention.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
Position the tree so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Backfill with soil and gently firm it around the roots.
Water thoroughly to settle the soil and remove air pockets.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it away from the trunk.
Watering
Young Trees: Water 2-3 times per week during the first year.
Established Trees: Water weekly during dry periods to encourage fruit production.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring before new growth emerges.
A second feeding in late summer helps support fruit development.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce flowering and fruiting.
Pollination & Fruiting
Mayhaws benefit from cross-pollination—plant at least two trees for higher yields.
Small white flowers bloom in early spring, attracting bees and pollinators.
Fruits mature in late spring (April-May) and drop when ripe, making them easy to harvest.
Pruning & Maintenance
Prune in late winter to remove dead or weak branches and improve air circulation.
Maintain a central leader for a strong structure.
Can be grown as a small tree or multi-trunked shrub.
Pest & Disease Control
Generally pest-resistant, but monitor for aphids, scale insects, and rust fungus.
Use dormant oil spray in winter to prevent pests.
Avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal diseases.
Harvesting
Fruits ripen in late April to May and naturally drop when fully ripe.
Harvest from the ground or shake branches gently over a tarp.
Use fresh or process into jams, jellies, syrups, and wine.
Planting & Care Guide for Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum)
The Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) is a deciduous, fruit-bearing shrub native to North America, celebrated for its sweet, antioxidant-packed berries and vibrant fall foliage. Thriving in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8, it’s perfect for home gardens, edible landscapes, and wildlife-friendly yards.
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Requires full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily).
Prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5-5.5.
Avoid heavy clay or alkaline soils—consider raised beds or containers in unsuitable soil conditions.
Soil Preparation
Test soil pH before planting; amend with peat moss, pine bark, or sulfur if needed to lower pH.
Mix in organic compost to improve soil structure and moisture retention.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
Loosen the roots if root-bound.
Position the plant so the crown is just above soil level.
Backfill with acidic soil mix, gently firming around roots.
Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Mulch with 2-3 inches of pine bark, sawdust, or straw to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first year.
Provide 1-2 inches of water per week, increasing during dry periods.
Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Use a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants (such as azalea or rhododendron fertilizer).
Apply in early spring and again in late spring after flowering.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote foliage growth but reduce fruiting.
Pollination & Fruiting
Plant at least two different varieties for better cross-pollination and higher yields.
Flowers attract bees and butterflies, aiding natural pollination.
Expect fruit 2-3 years after planting, with peak production at 5-7 years.
Pruning & Maintenance
Minimal pruning in the first 2 years to encourage strong root development.
In later years, prune in late winter to remove dead wood and promote new growth.
Thin out old, weak, or crowded branches for better airflow and fruiting.
Pest & Disease Control
Common pests: Birds, aphids, and Japanese beetles—use bird netting and organic insecticides if needed.
Fungal issues: Prevent powdery mildew & root rot by ensuring good air circulation and well-drained soil.
Mulch and proper spacing help reduce disease risks.
Harvesting
Berries ripen from late spring to early summer, depending on variety and location.
Pick when fully blue and slightly soft—avoid harvesting underripe berries.
Store fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for long-term use.
The Native Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub with clusters of white flowers and nutrient-rich berries. A great addition to wildlife gardens, hedgerows, and edible landscapes, it supports pollinators and provides valuable food for both birds and humans.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-10
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Prefers full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily).
Thrives in moist, well-drained soil but tolerates damp or periodically flooded areas.
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
Soil Preparation
Work in organic compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
If soil is heavy clay, consider raised beds or planting on slight mounds.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice the width and depth of the root ball.
Position the plant so the base of the stem is level with the soil surface.
Backfill with soil and gently firm around the roots.
Water thoroughly after planting.
Mulch with 2-3 inches of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering
Young plants: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in the first year.
Established plants: Water deeply once a week during dry periods.
Tolerant of periodic flooding but does not thrive in prolonged drought.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring to encourage growth.
A second application after flowering supports berry production.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth over fruiting.
Pollination & Fruiting
Elderberries are partially self-pollinating, but planting at least two increases berry yield.
Flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, attracting bees and butterflies.
Berries ripen in late summer to early fall and turn dark purple to black when ready to harvest.
Pruning & Maintenance
Minimal pruning in the first year to encourage strong root establishment.
In following years, prune in late winter to remove dead wood and improve air circulation.
Cut back older canes (3+ years old) to encourage new growth and better fruit production.
Pest & Disease Control
Common pests: Aphids, spider mites, and elderberry borers—use insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Fungal diseases: Powdery mildew and leaf spot—prevent with good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Birds love elderberries—use netting or harvest berries promptly to prevent loss.
Harvesting & Uses
Berries ripen in clusters—harvest when deep purple/black and fully soft.
Can be dried, juiced, or made into jams, syrups, and wines.
Elderberries are toxic when raw—always cook before consuming!
Flowers can be used fresh or dried for teas and herbal remedies.
The Red Mulberry (Morus rubra) is a fast-growing, deciduous fruit tree native to North America. Known for its sweet, juicy berries, this tree provides abundant fruit for humans, birds, and wildlife while also serving as a beautiful shade tree.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Prefers full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily).
Adapts to various soil types but thrives in moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5-7.0.
Avoid planting near sidewalks or driveways—the fallen fruit can stain surfaces.
Soil Preparation
Work in organic compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Mulch well to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
Position the tree so the root crown is level with the ground.
Backfill with soil, gently firming around the roots.
Water deeply after planting.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk.
Watering
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
Once established, mulberries are drought-tolerant, but regular watering improves fruit production.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring to encourage growth.
If needed, apply a second round of fertilizer after fruiting to support next year’s growth.
Pollination & Fruiting
Self-pollinating, but planting multiple trees may increase yield.
Bears fruit in 3-5 years; fruit ripens in late spring to early summer.
Fruits change from green to red to dark purple/black when ripe.
Pruning & Maintenance
Minimal pruning needed in the first year.
In following years, prune in late winter to remove dead or crowded branches.
Regular pruning improves airflow, reduces disease risk, and keeps fruit accessible.
Pest & Disease Control
Pests: Birds, aphids, and spider mites—use bird netting and neem oil as needed.
Fungal diseases: Powdery mildew and leaf spot—ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Harvesting & Uses
Harvest when berries are fully dark and soft—they easily drop when ripe.
Fresh eating, drying, jams, pies, and wine are popular uses.
Can be frozen for long-term storage.
The Yellow Hawthorn (Crataegus flava) is a hardy, deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States. Known for its ornamental beauty, wildlife benefits, and adaptability, it offers fragrant white flowers in spring, followed by vibrant yellow fruit in fall, ensuring year-round appeal. This tree is ideal for wildlife gardens, natural hedges, and erosion control.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Prefers full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight daily).
Thrives in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Tolerates well-drained soil and occasional wet conditions.
Soil Preparation
Best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
Adding organic compost improves root establishment.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.
Position the tree with the trunk base at soil level.
Backfill with native soil, firming gently around the roots.
Water deeply to settle the soil.
Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Watering
Young trees: Water weekly for the first year to establish deep roots.
Mature trees: Tolerate drought but benefit from occasional deep watering for better flowering and fruiting.
Fertilization
In early spring, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) to encourage healthy growth.
Avoid over-fertilizing as too much nitrogen can promote excessive foliage growth.
Pollination & Fruiting
Self-pollinating: Planting multiple trees can enhance fruit production.
Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies with spring flowers.
Yellow fruits ripen in fall, providing food for birds.
Pruning & Maintenance
Minimal pruning needed—remove dead or diseased branches.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth.
For hedges, prune while young to shape.
Pest & Disease Control
Resistant to most pests but may occasionally attract aphids or scale insects.
Common diseases include rust and powdery mildew—ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Wildlife & Landscape Benefits
Attracts pollinators with its fragrant flowers.
Provides food for birds with its small yellow fruits.
Acts as a natural windbreak or erosion control plant.
The Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria) is a versatile, evergreen shrub or small tree from the southeastern United States. Known for its dense foliage, bright red berries, and adaptability, it’s perfect for hedges, privacy screens, and ornamental use. Its berries also serve as a crucial winter food source for wildlife, and its leaves can be brewed into a naturally caffeinated tea.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-10
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Thrives in full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours of sunlight daily).
Adapts to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Tolerates salt, drought, and occasional flooding, making it ideal for coastal or wetland areas.
Soil Preparation
Prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5-7.0.
Adding organic compost improves soil structure.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
Position the plant so the base of the trunk is at ground level.
Backfill with native soil, firming gently around the roots.
Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Apply 2-3 inches of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Watering
Young plants: Water weekly for the first year to establish deep roots.
Mature plants: Drought-tolerant, but benefit from occasional deep watering.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring.
Apply a second feeding in late summer for richer foliage and berry production.
Pollination & Fruiting
Dioecious species: Needs both male and female plants for berry production.
Attracts pollinators like bees with its small white flowers in spring.
Female plants produce red berries in fall and winter, providing food for birds.
Pruning & Maintenance
Minimal pruning needed.
Prune in late winter or early spring to shape or remove dead branches.
Tolerates heavy pruning, ideal for hedges and topiaries.
Pest & Disease Control
Resistant to most pests and diseases.
Occasionally affected by scale insects or leaf spot, treat with horticultural or neem oil.
Wildlife & Landscape Benefits
Attracts pollinators with its fragrant flowers.
Provides food for birds with its nutrient-rich berries.
Ideal for coastal gardens due to its drought and salt tolerance.
The Flatwood Plum, or Hog Plum, is a hardy, deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States. It’s valued for its fragrant spring flowers, attractive fall foliage, and small, tart plums that feed wildlife. This small tree, growing 15-25 feet tall, is perfect for naturalized landscapes, wildlife gardens, and erosion control.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-9
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Prefers full sun to partial shade (6+ hours of sunlight daily).
Grows well in sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Tolerates poor, acidic, and well-drained soils, ideal for Florida landscapes.
Soil Preparation
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5-7.0).
Add organic compost to improve fertility.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
Position the tree with the root flare at soil level.
Backfill with native soil, firming gently around the roots.
Water deeply after planting.
Apply 2-3 inches of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Watering
Young trees: Water weekly for the first year.
Mature trees: Drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring.
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pollination & Fruiting
Self-pollinating: Planting multiple trees can improve fruit production.
White flowers bloom in early spring, attracting bees and butterflies.
Small plums ripen in late summer to early fall, enjoyed by wildlife.
Pruning & Maintenance
Prune in late winter or early spring.
Remove dead, diseased, or crowded branches.
Flatwood Plum naturally suckers, so remove unwanted growth as needed.
Pest & Disease Control
Resistant to most pests but may attract aphids, caterpillars, or scale insects.
Diseases include leaf spot, black knot, and powdery mildew—ensure good air circulation.
Wildlife & Landscape Benefits
Attracts bees and butterflies with its fragrant flowers.
Provides food for birds and small mammals.
Acts as a windbreak and erosion control plant.
The Simpson Stopper is a beautiful evergreen shrub or small tree native to Florida. With fragrant flowers, orange-red berries, and peeling bark, it’s perfect for pollinator gardens, privacy hedges, or as a specimen tree. Its berries attract birds, making it an excellent choice for eco-friendly landscaping.
USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11
Planting Instructions
Site Selection
Thrives in full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours of sunlight daily).
Grows well in sandy, well-drained soils, adaptable to various conditions.
Salt and drought-tolerant, ideal for coastal landscapes.
Soil Preparation
Prefers pH 6.0-7.5 but adapts to various soil types.
Organic matter can improve soil fertility.
Planting Steps
Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
Position the plant with the root flare at soil level.
Backfill with native soil and firm gently.
Water deeply to settle the roots.
Apply 2-3 inches of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.
Watering
Young plants: Water twice a week until established.
Mature plants: Drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring and late summer.
Over-fertilization is unnecessary.
Pollination & Fruiting
Produces fragrant white flowers in spring and summer, attracting bees and butterflies.
Bright red berries appear in fall and winter, serving as food for birds.
Self-pollinating, so a single plant can produce fruit.
Pruning & Maintenance
Minimal pruning, unless shaping.
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches.
Can be trained as a small tree or shaped into a dense hedge.
Pest & Disease Control
Highly resistant to pests and diseases.
Occasionally affected by aphids or scale insects—treat with neem oil.
Wildlife & Landscape Benefits
Attracts pollinators and provides food for birds.
Excellent for coastal plantings and deer-resistant landscapes.
Planting Instructions
Location: Full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours of sunlight daily).
Soil: Prefers well-draining, acidic to neutral soil.
Planting Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Spacing: Space at least 6-8 feet apart if planting multiple trees.
Watering
Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
Ongoing Watering: Keep soil moist for the first few months. Once established, drought-tolerant, but regular watering is beneficial during dry spells.
Fertilization
When to Fertilize: Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid fertilizing late in the season.
Organic Options: Compost or well-aged manure can be applied.
Pruning
Best Time: Late winter or early spring.
Shaping: Trim dead or damaged branches, but avoid heavy pruning.
Pests & Diseases
Resistant to most pests but may attract scale insects or aphids.
Relatively disease-resistant but can be susceptible to leaf spot or root rot if overwatered.
Winter Care
Cold Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to insulate the roots in colder climates.
Special Considerations
Berries: Female plants produce red berries, which attract birds.
Growth Habit: Ideal as a specimen tree, accent plant, or in formal gardens.
With proper care, your Weeping Yaupon Holly will thrive and add beauty to your landscape!
