Trees and shrubs are an excellent addition to any yard or garden. Whether you’re looking for shade and esthetics or a bountiful fruit harvest, IFA understands that planting a new tree or shrub is an investment. That’s why our Two-Year Tree and Shrub Guarantee ensures that your newest yard or garden addition will thrive.
By following the planting and care instructions specified, IFA knows that your new tree or shrub will take root and continue to grow. Discover the unparalleled benefits of IFA's two-year guarantee on trees and shrubs and learn how to plant them for a thriving yard or garden.
Why Choose IFA Trees and Shrubs?
As a farmer owned cooperative, IFA is your expert resource for all the plants you love to grow in the Intermountain West. We select only the highest quality trees and shrubs renowned for their exceptional hardiness and ability to thrive in our unique climates.
Choosing a new tree or shrub from IFA means investing in plants that are not only beautiful and productive, but also backed by IFA’s Two Year Tree and Shrub Guarantee. With a wide variety of species and cultivars, IFA provides options that suit every gardener’s or yard owner’s needs whether you are looking for apples, cherries, berry bushes or a beautiful new shade tree.
Understanding IFA's Two Year Tree and Shrub Guarantee
IFA is confident in our selection of trees and shrubs and that’s why we offer a two-year guarantee. This guarantee ensures that your investment is protected, giving you peace of mind that your plant will thrive or, on the off chance it doesn’t, IFA will replace it.
IFA will guarantee our trees and shrubs for two years from the date of purchase if they receive reasonable care and are planted with these growth starting products:
- Plant Success Organics Granular Mycorrhizae (1 oz., 4 oz. or 16 oz.)
- Fertilome Root Stimulator (32 oz. or 1 Gallon)
- IFA Garden & Planting Mix (1.5 cu. ft.)
*Original receipt and dead plant are required for all returns and guarantees.
The guarantee covers a range of issues, from disease to failure to establish, provided you follow the recommended care guidelines.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Container Grown Trees and Shrubs from IFA
Planting your IFA fruit tree or shrub correctly is crucial to its success. Start by choosing a location with ample sunlight and well-draining soil. In order to take advantage of IFA’s two-year guarantee, make sure you adhere to the planting guidelines below and incorporate the specified plant care products.
1. Dig the Hole
Dig the hole 3 to 4 times wider and only as deep as the root ball of the tree or shrub being planted.
2. Prepare the Tree or Shrub
Lay the tree on its side and very carefully remove the tree from the container, keeping the soil around the roots intact. Sometimes containerized trees become “root-bound” or the roots look like they are about to circle the root ball. If your tree’s roots look like this, cut an “X” across the bottom of the root ball and four vertical slices along the sides of the root ball with a sharp knife.
3. Place the Tree or Shrub
Place the tree in the middle of the planting hole. Avoid planting the tree too deep. If the root collar sits below the top of the hole, compact some soil underneath the tree so that the root flare is slightly above ground level. Fill the hole with water making sure the root ball and the soil in the hole are thoroughly wet.
4. Prepare IFA Garden & Planting Mix
While the hole is draining, mix the IFA Garden & Planting Mix into the backfill soil (the soil you dug out when digging the planting hole) at a ratio of approximately 50% soil and not more than 50% IFA Garden and Planting Mix.
5. Apply Granular Mycorrhizae
Pull the plant out of the watered hole and lay the root ball over the hole. The size of the plant will determine the amount of Plant Success Organics Granular Mycorrhizae needed–be sure to follow recommended guidelines on the product label. Measure out the amount of Mycorrhizae needed and wipe the Mycorrhizae on the root ball. Let the excess fall into the hole and then put the tree or shrub back in. Back fill the hole with the soil mixture half way up the root ball and firmly pack the soil to eliminate any air pockets.
6. Apply Root Stimulator
Mix 3.5 Tablespoons of Fertilome Root Stimulator in 1 gallon of water. Slowly pour up to 1 gallon of water and Root Stimulator solution into the planting hole. Finish filling up the hole with the mixed soil and once again firmly pack the soil mixture to make sure there are not any air pockets.
Pro Tip: Make sure the plant’s root collar is slightly higher than the surrounding soil.
7. Create a Water-Holding Basin
Create a water-holding basin around the base of the tree approximately 3-feet in diameter and give it a good watering. After the water has soaked in, add a 3-inch deep protective layer of mulch around the base but make sure it is not touching the trunk. This will aid in reducing evaporation and help with weed prevention.
8. Expect Success!
By following the planting guidelines and using the recommended care products, you can rest assured that your new tree or shrub has what it needs to get started in its new home.
Maximizing the Benefits of IFA's Guarantee: Tips for Tree and Shrub Care
To fully benefit from IFA's two-year guarantee, proper care of your new tree or shrub is essential. Regular watering, especially in the first year, helps establish strong roots. Mulching and weeding around the base can prevent competition for nutrients and water.
Pruning is also important for the health and productivity of your plant. Remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the tree or shrub to encourage better air circulation and light penetration. Fertilize according to the specific needs of your plant and monitor for pests and diseases to address issues promptly.
If you have any questions about proper tree and shrub care, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local IFA Country Store. An IFA gardening expert will be happy to help answer your questions and help your tree or shrub grow.
Selecting the Perfect IFA Tree or Shrub for Your Yard or Garden
Choosing the right fruit tree or shrub for your garden involves considering several factors, including climate, soil type, and available space. IFA's knowledgeable staff can help guide you to the best options for your specific conditions.
Whether you're looking for a productive fruit tree or an ornamental shrub, IFA offers a diverse selection to meet your needs. Consider the long-term care requirements and purpose of each option to make an informed decision that will bring you joy for years to come and rest assured that your new yard or garden addition will thrive when you follow IFA’s two-year guarantee planting and care guidelines.
