Watering Tips
Watering Technique: Use an open hose to water directly onto the rootball of your tree or shrub. Before you start watering, let the warm water run out of the hose so your plant gets fresh, cool water.
Irrigation Systems: If you’re using an irrigation system, set it up with a drip line rather than lawn sprinkler heads. Drip lines provide deep watering, which is essential for tree and shrub roots. Sprinklers are generally better suited for lawns.
Amount of Water: The volume of water you apply should roughly match the size of the plant's rootball or pot.
Frequency of Watering: For newly planted trees and shrubs, water daily for the first week. After that, water according to the plant’s needs. Typically, this means soaking the plant and then allowing it to approach dryness before watering again, usually every 2-5 days. The exact frequency may vary based on the plant size, soil and local weather conditions.
Adjust for Rain: Don’t rely solely on rain for your plant’s water needs. Rain often doesn’t penetrate deeply enough to reach the deeper roots.
Avoid Watering Foliage: Water the soil rather than the leaves to prevent fungal diseases. Plants absorb water through their roots, not their leaves.
Seasonal Adjustments: Continue watering until the first heavy frost in the fall, usually at the end of October, which signals the trees and shrubs to enter dormancy. During hot summer months, remember that both you and your plants need extra hydration.
Additional Tips:
New Plant Care: Newly planted trees and shrubs need deep watering at least three times a week for the first year. Use a hose for deep watering, as irrigation or sprinkler systems may not reach the deeper roots. Ensure the water is cool, as hot water can damage your plants. A deep watering session should last about thirty seconds, focusing the water near the tree trunk to avoid disturbing the surrounding soil and mulch.
Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas need consistent watering and will show distress with droopy leaves when they need more water. For these plants, water with a slow count of twenty seconds every night until the droopiness subsides. Consistent watering is especially important during the first year to help establish strong roots.
Take care of your gardens as you would yourself, and your plants will thank you for it. We wish you happy gardening, and all the best for a beautiful summer season.
Additional questions? Contact us at 905.878.1105!
