How to Plant Loropetalum in Georgia

Water loropetalum in its container -- about six to 12 hours before planting it -- until the water seeps out from the drainage hole. A well hydrated loropetalum transitions better from container to garden than one that is water stressed.

Select a site to grow loropetalum that is full to partial sun. It grows best in an area with plenty of morning sun and some afternoon shade, especially in the southern areas of Georgia where hot summers are normal.

Apply a 3- to 4-inch layer of organic matter, such as compost, across the planting site that is three to four times as wide as the loropetalum’s container. Work the organic matter into the soil with a spade or garden fork, amending the soil to a depth that is about two times as deep as the loropetalum’s container.

Dig a hole in the center of the amended soil that is same depth as the loropetalum’s container and one and a half to two times as wide.

Remove the loropetalum from its container, cutting the soft plastic container with a sharp knife to release its hold. You can try squeezing it as well, or if necessary, turn the plant on its side and gently pull at the bottom of the stems.

Set the entire root ball into the center of the hole, keeping the container soil around the roots intact. Fill in the sides around the plant, ensuring that the loropetalum is planted just as deeply as it was in its container. Apply 1 inch of water on top of the entire planting hole.

Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch, such as bark chips, to help hold water in the soil. Keep the mulch about 2 inches from the stems, and extend it about 12 to 18 inches past the canopy of the plant.