Grow Where You Are Planted: The Secret To Thriving Plants

Planting that tree, shrub or great new pollinator plant isn’t just about digging a hole, dropping it in, and hoping for the best. Just like relationships, businesses, and communities, plants need the right foundation to truly thrive. A plant’s success depends on more than just location—it requires proper planting technique, the correct amount of water, healthy soil and maybe a helping hand here and there.

The Importance of Soil Biology
Most people think of soil as simply dirt, but it’s actually a living, breathing ecosystem. Beneath the surface, billions of microorganisms—bacteria, fungi, nematodes, and more—work together to create a thriving underground network that supports plant growth. These microbes help break down organic matter, cycle nutrients, and create a balanced environment where roots (and fungi, and bacteria, and actinobacteria, and microarthropods, and, and, and…) can access the water and minerals they need.

When planting, it’s crucial to consider soil biology, not just soil type. A plant placed in nutrient-poor, compacted, or chemically altered soil will struggle, no matter how much water or fertilizer it receives. Instead, we should nurture the soil by incorporating biologically active compost (locally produced is best), feeding the soil microbes, and covering bare soil with organic mulch.

Healthy soil doesn’t just feed the plant—it fosters relationships between the plant’s roots and beneficial microbes. For example, mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with roots, extending their reach and increasing nutrient uptake. Without this underground support system, plants are left to fend for themselves, making them more vulnerable to drought, disease, and stress. Newly planted plants lack the extra resources needed to overcome these new challenges on their own.

Soil isn’t the only place where biology is important. Plants are full of microbes, inside and out. Collectively these microbes are known as the “microbiome”. A healthy microbiome is full of important microorganisms that support plants by acting as a physical defense against pathogens, helping the plant better take up nutrients, and building the plants tolerance to heat and drought stress. -These are just a few ways that plants benefit from a robust microbiome.

The Establishment Window: The Key to Adaptation
A newly planted tree or shrub doesn’t immediately become part of the landscape—it must go through an establishment period before it can truly thrive. This window, which spans over a few years, is when the plant is most vulnerable. It’s adjusting to its new environment, expanding its root system, and forming essential connections with soil microbes.

During this time, plants require consistent care to ensure they establish successfully. Here are some key factors that contribute to successful establishment:

Watering Wisely – Overwatering or underwatering are common mistakes. Young plants need regular, deep watering to encourage deep root growth, but they also need time for the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. As roots grow wider and deeper, the plant becomes more drought-resistant.
Watering In The Correct Place – When planting, pay attention to where the plants fine, absorbing roots are, then water that zone. Often times new B&B trees (ball and burlap) are watered with drip irrigation right up against the tree’s trunk. That is not where the absorbing roots are. The irrigation should be placed toward the outside of the root ball, but not at the edge or off of the root ball. As plants grow, irrigation should be adjusted and expanded outward to ensure the correct part of the root system is being watered.
Mulching for Protection – A layer of organic mulch helps regulate soil temperature, conserve moisture, and slowly release nutrients. It also suppresses weeds that compete for resources. However, piling mulch directly against the trunk or stem encourages rot.
Supportive Applications – Using compost teas and extracts help establish and strengthen partnerships between your plant and microbes. Nursery plants are commonly grown in milder climates, then shipped around the country. Applying compost teas and extracts gives you an opportunity to add locally adapted microbes to the your plants microbiome. These locally adapted microbes are especially vital during times of heat and drought.
Patience and Observation – Growth doesn’t happen overnight. By monitoring new plantings and adjusting care as needed, you help them transition from survival mode to thriving. Signs of successful establishment include new growth, vibrant foliage, and reduced need for supplemental watering. If you’ve been watching your plant closely, you’ll know when it’s turned the corner.
Thriving Beyond Survival
Just as people need time to settle into a new home, job, or community, plants require an adjustment period to integrate into their new environment. The difference between merely surviving and thriving comes down to preparation, patience, and support.

When we take the time to nurture the plant microbiome and respect a plant’s establishment window, we set the stage for long-term success. So the next time you plant, remember—it’s not just about putting roots in the ground; it’s about creating a place where those roots can truly grow.