For example, when planting
trees and shrubs the depth of the hole can mean life or death to your
new plant. Plant too deep and you create a basin that can collect too
much water. Root rot results and you loose the plant. Plant too shallow
and the roots may dry out. In colder climes the soil will push the plant
right out of the ground when the soil freezes and thaws in winter (frost
heaving). The planting hole must also be wide enough to allow space for root growth.
Roses
are especially sensitive to planting depth. In warmer zones, plant so
the bud union (where the canes connect with the roots) is at or just above
soil level. Colder climates should have the union below soil level, 4"-6"
depending on the severity of your winters.
For projects such as decks
or fences,
make sure the hole
is vertical rather than at an angle and the bottom of the hole is level.
The hole needs to be deep enough to support the structural needs of the
project as well as meet code requirements. Use the proper concrete
mix, gravel or other fill material for the hole. Allow the concrete
sufficient time to cure before proceeding to the next step.
Digging out the footing area for a patio,
concrete
pad or retaining wall
requires tamping and leveling for a solid foundation. Excavations for
ponds,
especially those lined with flexible sheet liners, must be smooth and free of jagged projections.
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Make sure you've located all underground utilities before you start any
excavation. The North America One Call Referral Service at
1-888-258-0808 connects you to a national directory of utility companies. Call before you dig. |
Other underground obstructions that you need to locate or consider include septic fields
and tree
roots. Look up above also. Before you plant trees under overhead utilities,
make sure the plant you have chosen will not interfere with the poles
or cable. Before you dig for fences
or privacy hedges,
check property lines and easements.
Granted, digging a hole is usually not a lot of fun, especially if you've got a
lot of them to do. It helps if you have the right tools.
Shovels, spades and forks are the most common implements. For bigger jobs,
a digging bar, post hole digger, mattock or pick may be necessary. Power
tools such as tillers
and augers can actually make digging fun. Use the right tool for the job
so that the tool itself can do most of the work. Pace yourself properly to avoid overexertion and sore muscles the next day.
