Frequently Asked Questions About RPM Tree Care
What is a Native Plant?
A plant that originated in the geographic area and was not introduced.
Why plant Native trees?
Growing native plants adds to the natural biodiversity of your area. Native plants conserve soil and water, are adapted to the local environment requiring less or no fertilizers or pesticides, have increased disease and pest resistance, support a diversity of wildlife through improved habitat and food production, require less maintenance, plus providing all of the other benefits associated with trees.
What is your guarantee?
We guarantee the plant materials we sell to be alive and healthy at the time of shipment and to be true to name. We cannot be held responsible for losses due to improper storage conditions, delayed planting, or improper climate planting. We do not substitute without our permission.
Upon receipt of your shipment you should open promptly, examine materials and report any missing items within 48 hours after receipt of packages (1.888.776.9590).
Do I need to plant my purchased as soon as they arrive? How should I store them if I’m not able to plant right away?
Unpack your plants as soon as possible after receiving them. Ideally, plant one or two days having prepared your ground for planting ensure that the pot soil is moist, if not water thoroughly until water drains through the holes in the pot. Please see the RPM Planting Guide with your shipping documents or go to our website. If you are unable to plant for several days place container in an airy, lightly shaded location, making sure that the soil in the container is kept moist.
Do I need to fertilize? When? What kind? How Much?
We recommend the yearly application of a slow release fertilizer applied around each tree either in late winter or early spring. An analysis of 27-3-6 with I.B.D.U. or similar is recommended.
When should I prune? What and how much should I prune?
Pruning methods are dependent on the plant question. Pruning of a form nature is primarily undertaken to maintain a specific form an/or size. Pruning basically involves the removal of dead and unwanted growth and is normally carried out during winter in the dormat period for most wood plants. Pruning is normally an annual operation but many quicker growing plants such as hedges require more frequent attention.
What winter care do my RPM plants require?
Generally we recommend that you mulch at the base of the tree or shrub when you plant. Mulch about 4 inches thick to the edge of the tree canopy. MULCH SHOULD NOT TOUCH THE BARK OF THE TREE. Replenish Yearly.
How can I protect against deer?
If the trees are to be planted in areas of heavy deer population a tree guard or similar protection device is a wise investment. (Also serves as rodent protection).
