- 1). Loosen the soil at the planting site to a depth of 12 inches. Remove all large rocks and grass clumps.
- 2). Dig a hole that is the same depth and two times the diameter of the butterfly plant's root ball. Add a 3- to 4-inch layer of compost and mix well with the loosened soil.
- 3). Place the root ball into the hole at the same level it was previously growing. Back-fill with the loosened soil and pat down to remove air pockets. Water until the soil feels very moist, but not soggy.
- 4). Add a 2- to 4-inch layer of mulch around the butterfly plant to protect the roots and control weed growth.
- 5). Continue to add moisture anytime the top inch of soil feels dry during the first few weeks after planting. Once the roots are established the butterfly plant will only need added moisture during very dry weather.
- 6). Clip off the blooms as they fade to extend the blooming cycle.
- 7). Prune off dead and damaged branches as often as necessary. Trim back to a height of 1 to 3 feet in early spring, before new growth emerges.
- 8). Apply a 2-inch layer of compost in early spring. Add a fresh layer of much as well.
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