There is something genuinely exciting about a plant delivery day. Whether you have ordered a statement tree for your front yard, a collection of perennials for a garden bed, or a mix of shrubs to create some privacy, the arrival of new plants is the beginning of something beautiful. With a little preparation, you can set those plants up for long-term success right from the start.
At Hewitt Garden and Design Center, we have spent 40 years helping Middle Tennessee gardeners make the most of every plant they bring home. As a family-owned plant store in Franklin, TN, we know that the work you do before and after delivery matters just as much as choosing the right plants in the first place.
Know What Is Coming and Where It Will Go
Before your delivery arrives, take time to review exactly what you ordered and map out where each plant will live. Consider the mature size of each plant, not just how it looks in the container today. Middle Tennessee summers are warm and humid, and plants here can grow vigorously once they are established. Giving them adequate space from the start prevents crowding issues down the road and reduces competition for water and nutrients.
Walk your yard with your plant list in hand and mark each spot. Think about sun exposure throughout the day, drainage patterns after a heavy rain, and proximity to structures or utilities. A little planning now saves a lot of digging later.
Prepare Your Soil Before the Plants Arrive
One of the best things you can do before plant delivery in Franklin, TN is prepare your planting areas in advance. Middle Tennessee soil can vary quite a bit from yard to yard, and many properties have compacted clay that needs some attention before new plants go in.
Loosen the soil in each planting area and work in quality compost or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient availability. If you are unsure about your soil composition, a simple soil test can give you helpful guidance. Proper soil preparation is one of the most reliable ways to support healthy root development and long-term plant vitality.
Have Your Tools and Supplies Ready
When the delivery truck arrives, you want to be ready to move efficiently. Have your shovels, garden gloves, a hose or watering can, and any mulch you plan to use staged and accessible. If plants will sit for a short time before going into the ground, keep them in a shaded spot and water them lightly to prevent stress.
For larger trees or shrubs, consider having stakes and ties on hand in case support is needed during the first growing season. Our team at Hewitt is always happy to advise on what each specific plant may need.
Planting and the Critical First Weeks
When it is time to plant, dig each hole two to three times as wide as the root ball but no deeper than necessary. Planting too deep is a common mistake that can lead to root rot and poor establishment. Backfill with the native soil you removed, water thoroughly, and apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
The first few weeks after planting are the most important for establishment. Water consistently, especially during dry spells, and keep an eye on your new additions for any signs of stress. Middle Tennessee summers can be intense, and newly planted specimens need extra attention until their root systems settle in.
Lean on Local Expertise
Gardening in Middle Tennessee comes with its own set of rewards and challenges, and having a knowledgeable local partner makes a real difference. Whether you are looking for guidance on plant selection, soil preparation, or ongoing care, our team at Hewitt Garden and Design Center is here to help. We take pride in offering a curated selection of high-quality plants and the kind of personalized support that big box stores simply cannot match.
If you are considering a larger project, our landscaping in Franklin, TN team can help you design and install a landscape that thrives for years to come. And if you are just starting to explore what our garden nursery in Franklin, TN has to offer, we would love to welcome you.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you are planning your first delivery or adding to an established garden, we are here to help every step of the way. Contact the Hewitt Garden and Design Center team to ask questions, schedule a delivery, or get personalized planting advice from people who genuinely love helping gardens grow.