Watering Guide for New Plantings: Ensure Healthy Roots

New plantings need consistent moisture as their roots adjust to their new environment. Understanding how much and how often to water can make the difference between thriving plants and struggling ones!

Step 1: Water Immediately After Planting

• After planting, thoroughly soak the root ball and surrounding soil to settle it and provide initial moisture.

• Why: This helps eliminate air pockets and ensures the roots have good contact with the soil.

Step 2: Maintain Moisture Without Overwatering

• Goal: Keep the soil around the roots moist, but not waterlogged.

• Why: Overwatering can suffocate roots, while under-watering can stress the plant and prevent it from establishing.

• How to Check: Insert a spade or your fingers 12 inches deep to feel for moisture. The soil should feel moist but not soggy.

Step 3: Establish a Weekly Watering Routine

• Water once per week if there’s less than 1 inch of rainfall.

• For New Plantings: Continue watering weekly until the ground freezes, especially during fall.

• Watering Amount: Aim for about 10 gallons of water twice a week for a 20-24 inch root ball (or roughly the equivalent of 1 inch of rainfall).

  • Example: If it takes 5 minutes to fill a 2-gallon container with your hose, you’ll need 25 minutes to provide 10 gallons of water.

Step 4: Use Slow, Deep Watering

• Water slowly so moisture penetrates deep into the soil to encourage strong root growth.

• Why: Shallow watering only wets the surface and prevents roots from developing deeply.

• How: Use a slow stream from your hose or a drip system to gradually apply water.

Step 5: Monitor Soil Moisture Regularly

• Check soil moisture at least once a week by digging down 12 inches near the root ball.

• Why: This ensures the roots are staying moist, but not saturated.

• Tip: Clay soils may need less frequent watering since they hold moisture longer, while sandy soils may need more frequent watering due to faster drainage.

Step 6: Adjust for Weather and Soil Type

• In Hot, Dry, or Windy Conditions: Water more frequently as evaporation increases.

• In Cooler, Rainier Conditions: You may need to water less if rainfall provides adequate moisture.

Step 7: Establish a Long-Term Watering Schedule

• For First Growing Season: Water 2-3 times per week, especially during hot or dry periods.

• Larger Trees: Trees with a 2-inch trunk diameter or more may need this schedule extended for several years.

  • Tip: Expect to water for about 1 year per inch of trunk diameter.

Step 8: Avoid Overwatering

• Be cautious not to water too much. Overwatered roots can suffocate due to lack of oxygen.

• Goal: The soil should feel consistently moist, but never excessively wet.

Follow these guidelines and watch your trees and shrubs adjust to their new environment with ease!