How to Properly Plant Trees, Shrubs & Cacti in Arizona

Learn the right way to plant in the desert — or let our professional crew handle it for you.

Desert-Specific Planting Methods

Contractor-Grade Plants

Proper Watering & Drainage

Optional Professional Installation

Choose What You're Planting

Every plant category has slightly different needs. Click below to jump to the right method.

How to Plant Trees

How to Plant Trees (All Sizes)

1. Hole & Placement
  • Dig the hole about 2× wider than the root ball, but no deeper.
  • Keep the root flare slightly above finished grade.
  • Set the tree straight and oriented correctly before backfilling.
2. Backfill, Basin & Mulch
  • Backfill using native soil only (do not amend the hole).
  • Build a watering basin around the tree.
  • Add mulch or rock, keeping material 3–5 inches away from the trunk.
3. Watering & Support
  • Water deeply immediately after planting.
  • Stake only if necessary and tie loosely.
  • Remove stakes after the tree is established.
How to Plant Shrubs & Flowers

How to Plant Shrubs & Flowers

1. Hole & Placement
  • Dig the hole about 1.5× wider than the root ball, no deeper.
  • Set the plant so the top of the root ball is at or slightly above grade.
  • Loosen any circling roots before planting.
2. Backfill & Finish
  • Backfill with native soil and gently firm.
  • Apply mulch or rock, keeping material off stems and crowns.
  • Shape soil to direct water toward the roots.
3. Watering & Establishment
  • Water thoroughly after planting.
  • Maintain consistent moisture during establishment.
  • Reduce watering frequency as roots develop.
How to Plant Palms

How to Plant Palms

1. Hole & Placement
  • Dig the hole about 2× wider than the root ball, shallow rather than deep.
  • Set the palm slightly above grade.
  • Never bury the palm trunk.
2. Backfill & Bracing
  • Backfill carefully with native soil.
  • Brace taller palms to prevent movement.
  • Ensure good drainage around the root zone.
3. Watering & Aftercare
  • Water deeply after planting.
  • Delay fertilizing until new growth appears.
  • Remove bracing after establishment (typically 6–12 months).
How to Plant Cacti & Succulents

How to Plant Cacti & Succulents

1. Site & Drainage
  • Confirm fast drainage; use mounds if needed.
  • Dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball.
  • Avoid planting in low or soggy areas.
2. Planting & Backfill
  • Plant at the same depth as the container.
  • Backfill with fast-draining native soil or cactus mix.
  • Use gravel mulch and keep material off the base.
3. Watering & Care
  • Wait several days before heavy watering (for most cacti).
  • Water sparingly and allow soil to dry between cycles.
  • Protect from extreme sun or cold during establishment.
How to Plant Espaliers (Wall-Trained Plants)

How to Plant Espaliers (Wall-Trained Plants)

1. Placement & Support
  • Install wall anchors or trellis before planting.
  • Plant 6–12 inches away from the wall.
  • Angle the plant slightly toward the support.
2. Backfill & Training
  • Backfill with native soil and firm gently.
  • Tie branches loosely using soft ties only.
  • Avoid wire or tight bindings.
3. Watering & Ongoing Training
  • Water deeply and consistently.
  • Adjust ties as the plant grows.
  • Train gradually over time for best form.
Dead Arizona plant from bad installation

Rules That Prevent 90% of Plant Failures

Dig wide, NOT deep
  • Dig wide, not deep
  • Keep trunks, crowns, and root flares above grade
Backfill with Native Soil
  • Backfill with native soil
  • Keep mulch and rock off the trunk
Proper Watering Matters
  • Build a watering basin
  • Water deeply right after planting

DIY Installation

  • Requires tools
  • Easy to plant incorrectly
  • Incorrect irrigation installation

Professional Installation

  • Proper depth every time
  • Correct watering basins
  • Efficient, clean, and accurate
Contact Us For Professional Plant Installation
Professional plant installation in Arizona

Before Your Planting Day

Whether you’re planting yourself or scheduled for professional installation, proper preparation is critical.

Prepare your yard prior to plant installation

Prepare Your Yard

It’s important that your yard is fully ready before planting day to avoid delays or complications.

  • All stumps must be removed from planting areas before our crew arrives. Our planting teams do not have stump removal equipment on site.
  • If you have a stump that needs removal, please contact your Three Timbers Nursery Professional ahead of time to discuss removal options.
  • If plant locations were marked with flags, ensure all flags are visible and in place.
  • Remove any excess dirt or debris that may interfere with planting. (We do not haul away or remove loose dirt.)
Make Space for Our Three Timbers Crews when planting

Make Space for Our Crews

  • Measure all gates, doorways, and access points to ensure plants and crew members can safely pass through.
  • Consider obstacles such as: A/C Units, Pools, Stairwells, Overhangs, Tight side yards.
  • For potted installations, customers are responsible for supplying soil.Soil can be purchased directly from the nursery.
Any changes you need prior to planting must be made 48 hours in advance

Any Changes?

  • Reschedules or changes must be made at least 48 hours in advance of your scheduled delivery or installation date.

*These are the same rules our installation crews follow on every job.

Day of Delivery / Installation

What to Expect on Delivery & Planting Day

Delivery Reminders Sent During Three Timbers Drop Offs

Delivery Reminders

  • You’ll receive a reminder text the day before your scheduled planting.
  • You’ll receive another text when the crew is on the way.
Parking and Unloading During Plant Delivery / Installation

Parking & Unloading Access

To keep things efficient and safe:

  • Please move vehicles from: Driveways, Parking Spaces, The Street Directly in front of the Property.
  • Our team requires a clear path from the unloading area to planting locations.

Note: Three Timbers is not responsible for moving or locating underground utilities, irrigation lines, or drainage systems.

Three Timbers needs yard access for delivery and planting

Yard Access

  • Unlock all gates and doors needed for access.
  • If you live in a gated community, provide gate codes ahead of time.
  • Secure all pets inside the home for everyone’s safety.

*These are the same rules our installation crews follow on every job.