Lime will help raise the soil pH if needed. Plants are usually set by hand. The plants should not be allowed to dry out and should be sheltered during the entire transplanting procedure. Such grooves are opened by specially constructed discs and closed firmly by a press wheel after the plants are loosely set. Plants must be set so that only the top of the crown bud is exposed.
Plants die when the crowns are completely covered with soil.
Poor plant growth results from setting plants too high, exposing the crown area where new roots initiate. Plants should be sprinkler-irrigated within a few hours after planting. Emerging roots are very sensitive to drought and salinity. Any condition that inhabits or slows growth will reduce yields. Regular irrigation is needed after planting and is necessary during dry periods in winter.