Planting Your Plugs: The Puddling In Method

The puddling in method gives roots immediate access to water at planting, reduces transplant stress, and helps plugs establish quickly. Follow these steps each time you plant.

Before you begin: Keep plug roots moist and out of direct sun until you are ready to plant. Do not let them dry out.

1. Dig your holes. Dig each hole straight down and just deep enough so the top of the plug sits level with the surrounding soil — not sunken below the surface and not raised above it.

2. Puddle in. Pour water directly into each empty hole before placing the plug. Set the plug into the water-filled hole, let it sit a minute or two for the roots to absorb the water, then fill in with the surrounding soil and gently press down around the base of the plant. This saturates the root zone immediately and eliminates air pockets.

Note: There is no need to loosen or break apart the roots before planting. They will naturally spread on their own as the plant begins to establish.

After planting, head to Watering & First-Season Care for next steps.