- I was counting on the Cletha shrubs to arrive before daffodil digging began. The very light box (Clethra) came first. We had a light rain that provided extra rainwater in the barrels.
- I opened the package and began soaking the shrubs about two hours early, 5 am. Plants sent correctly are so protected, they have boxes around them and tape keeping everything from jostling.
- I picked spots in the front where the Cletha would be seen and appreciated. My shovel must have root radar, because each choice location included a tough maple root. I snipped them.
- The shrubs were easy to plant, so I used the removed soil and added Peat Humus on top for activating soil creatures.
- The top layer is Cyprus mulch, because that marks new or renewed plants. And it holds moisture while slowing decaying into the soil.
- I use the plastic collar to protect new plants from critters. I added rainwater to each plant.
- The soil is quite dry, so I will keep adding rainwater.
I added more Clethras because of the power of fragrance. They bring butterflies and pollinators. Clethra's cinnamon and sweet aroma is also pleasing to humans.
