Watering New Plantings
To ensure newly planted trees and shrubs establish successfully, their roots require an environment that is consistently moist without becoming waterlogged. Begin by thoroughly soaking the roots during planting to settle the soil around the root mass .This could be as much as 3 gallons.
Throughout the first season, the necessary supplemental water fluctuates based on temperature, wind, and local soil conditions. If rainfall is less than 1” over a 5 to 7-day span, manual watering is essential for plant survival. This remains vital even through the fall; continue your weekly watering schedule until the ground officially freezes.
Volume Guidelines
Typically, applying ten gallons of water twice weekly is sufficient to saturate a 20”–24” root ball, mimicking 1” of natural rain. To accurately measure your application, time how long it takes to fill a container of a known size using a slow-running hose without a nozzle. For example, if a 2-gallon can fill in 5 minutes, you will need 25 minutes to deliver 10 gallons.
Maintain a steady water flow and use a timer to ensure precision. Because the root mass dries faster than the surrounding earth, use a spade to gently probe the soil to a depth of 12” and check moisture levels with your fingers.
Water Wisdom
- Water slowly, avoid runoff. Water must penetrate deeply to establish healthy roots.
- Avoid frequent, light sprinkling.
- Measure rate of flow from your hose, or use a can or bucket of known volume.
- Account for rainfall and weather conditions.
- Sandy, dry soils need more water.
- Check soil moisture by physical inspection.
- Too much water can kill plants; soil should never be soggy. Roots need air as well as water.
Gardens: Flowers & Vegetables
At the time of planting, provide flower and vegetable transplants with 1½ quarts of water, while larger perennials require 3 quarts. In instances where soil is poorly drained or heavy, reduce these volumes. Moving forward, ensure these plants receive 1” of water—either through rainfall or manual application—every 5 to 7 days.
Lawn Establishment
Maintain consistent moisture in newly seeded areas until seedling growth is evenly established, taking care to prevent water run-off. Applying a light straw layer can help retain moisture and protect young sprouts from the sun. As roots begin to deepen, gradually scale back watering. For long-term health, aim for a weekly total of 1” of water from rain or supplemental sources.
Mulch conserves water
Mulch new perennials, shrubs, trees at planting time to conserve moisture, and to suppress grass and weeds. This encourages fine root development and healthy growth. A tree watering bag can be a welcome addition to a newly planted tree ensuring even, consistent moisture distribution.
Weather promises to become more erratic as climate changes. Expect heavier rain events and more frequent prolonged hot, dry spells. Water with care.
