To make holes in your garden, particularly for planting, the key is to dig them wide and shallow rather than deep and narrow.
Why Dig Wide and Shallow Holes?
Understanding the purpose of the hole is crucial. Most commonly, you're digging holes to plant trees, shrubs, or flowers. The way you dig these planting holes significantly impacts the plant's future health and growth.
According to gardening principles, almost all planting holes should be much wider than they are deep. This is particularly beneficial in clay soils, which tend to compact easily and hinder drainage. The main reasons for this wide, shallow shape are for better drainage and root growth. Roots need space to spread outwards into the surrounding soil, not just downwards.
Ideal Dimensions for Planting Holes
Based on recommended practices, a planting hole should be dug about three or four times as wide as the container your plant came in. The depth should be just slightly deeper than the root ball or container depth. Remember, a shallow, wide hole is best. This ensures the top of the root ball sits at or slightly above ground level after planting, preventing waterlogging and encouraging roots to establish in the native soil.
| Dimension | Recommendation (Relative to Container) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Width | About 3 to 4 times wider | Encourages root spread |
| Depth | Just slightly deeper | Prevents root ball sinking |
How to Dig the Hole
Making the hole is straightforward once you know the dimensions:
- Clear the Area: Remove any weeds, grass, or debris from where you plan to dig.
- Measure: Use your plant's container or root ball as a guide for the width and depth.
- Start Digging: Use a shovel or spade to begin removing soil. Focus on creating the required width, digging outwards as much as downwards.
- Check Depth: Place your plant (still in its container, or the root ball itself) into the hole occasionally to check the depth. The top of the root ball should be nearly level with the surrounding soil surface.
- Loosen Sides: Use your shovel or a garden fork to loosen the soil on the sides of the hole. This helps roots penetrate the native soil easily.
- Prepare Soil (Optional but Recommended): You can mix a small amount of compost or other organic matter into the soil you removed, which will be used to backfill the hole.
By following these steps and focusing on creating wide, shallow holes, you provide an optimal environment for your plants to thrive.
