April Showers - Properly Watering New Plants

Put on your rain boots, it's time to water!

They say that April showers bring May flowers. While this spring has been following those guidelines, not every season is so generous. Newly planted tree or shrub needs thorough watering after planting so that its roots are moist.  Let the hose run at the base of the tree or shrub at medium pressure for about half an hour for shrubs and an hour for trees.  The water should soak the ground to a 6-8” depth.  If you underwater, roots will not develop properly.  At the same time, to avoid over-watering, water every six to seven days but only after checking the moisture level. Simply probe the soil adjacent to the root ball with your fingers about 2” deep, if It is moist to the touch no watering is necessary.  Also, remember that watering may need adjusting depending on the following factors: species and age of plant, type of soil, season and weather conditions (temperature, sun, wind)

Proper watering will require enough hose to reach to the base of all plants.  Watering is done best with a Dramm Water Wand with diffuser nozzle and shut-off valve and possibly soaker hoses if you don’t have enough time to water plants individually by hand.  Do not water your plants with sprinklers - sprinklers are for lawns.

Frequency of watering will vary depending on weather conditions but a general rule of once a week in spring and fall and two to three times a week in summer should be sufficient.  Before watering, run hose to remove hot water that may have built up during hot sunny days.  Larger trees and shrubs can be watered with a slow trickle, placing the hose at the base of the tree and allowing it to run for approximately 15-20 minutes or until approximately 15-20 gallons of water have been applied.

Smaller shrubs are best watered by hand using a water wand and diffuser, applying the water at the base of the plant for approximately 20-30 seconds or until water begins to run off.  Repeat this at least two to three times allowing water to soak in between applications.  Although it is preferable to water either early morning or evening, watering during the day is acceptable and essential if a plant is dry and under stress
Perennials may require water more often than woody plants will. A steady rain will take the place of a watering. During extreme temperatures or sun exposure, plants may show signs of wilting and can be watered to relieve stress. Continue to water until cooler temperatures bring on dormancy. Evergreen plants in exposed sites will benefit from water even when dormant.

It is important to ensure that the seeded lawn areas receive a good soaking with each watering.  Water until slight puddling occurs.  This will encourage development of the root system.  Also, under-watering at this stage will prevent the seeds from sprouting.  Once the lawn is established, frequency of watering will depend on factors such as weather, soil type, seed type, etc.  If large puddles of water pool on the ground, it indicates over-watering.  If grass starts to brown or ground starts to crack, the lawn is being under-watered.

Water sod EVERY DAY for ½ hour in each “zone” until squishy, use a walking sprinkler, or begin watering at the farthest point so you won’t be walking on wet lawn. Try to avoid walking on sod until rooted especially when wet. Water this way until rooted—lift a corner to check this. During the initial period of four weeks, sod and under soil should be kept moist at all times.  The reason this is so important is to prevent the sod from shrinking at the seams and prevent any browning.  After this time, frequency of watering should be reduced.  Water as needed to prevent browning.