Monthly Archives: August 2013
Fall Festival!
Dig a Better Hole: Plants, Posts and More
Are you planning a project that
involves digging a hole? New plants,
posts and many projects will require you dig a hole (or holes)! The hole you
dig may be critical to your job’s success. Make sure you dig it properly.
Planting /
Landscaping
For trees and shrubs, the depth they
are planted can mean life or death! If
you plant too deep, you could create a basin that can collect too much water,
which can cause root rot and you lose the plant. On the other hand, if you
plant too shallow, the roots may dry out. If you live in a colder region, the
soil can push the plant right out of the ground when it freezes and thaws in
the winter. Additionally, the planting hole must also be wide enough to allow
space for root growth.
If you are planting roses, please
note that they are especially sensitive to planting depth. If you live in a
warmer region, make sure to plant so that where the canes connect with the
roots, is just at or a little above soil level.
If you live in a colder region, plant so that the union is below soil
level (4” – 6” depending on the severity and length of your winters.
For holes associated with planting
and landscaping we have many tools that will not only make your job easier, but
will make it faster! Give us a call
today to see how Action Rentals can help you!
Decks,
Fences and More
If you are digging a hole (holes)
for posts, it is critical that the posts are plumb. 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 any 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.
If you planning on digging out the footing area for a patio, concrete pad or
retaining wall, remember that it will require 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.
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.
To be sure, digging a hole is usually not a lot of fun, especially if you’ve got
a lot of them to do. However, having the right tools will help not only speed
up the process, but make it easier for you. Shovels, spades and forks are some
common implements. For larger 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. If you use the right tool for the job, the tool itself can do most
of the work. Let the experts at Action Rentals in Kingsport help you make the
most of out of your project. Give us a
call at 423-246-5181, visit us online at www.actionrentalkpt.com or come by
our showroom at 1861 North Eastman Road in Kingsport, TN for more information.
Remember to
call before you dig! Call the North America One Call Referral Service at
1-888-258-0808 (or just dial 811) for a national directory of utility
companies.