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Water Wisely

Category: Garden Resource, How-to Guides | Posted by: Mike Riesenberg

Watering Needs of Newly Planted Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, and Annuals

Look at the forecast lately? Hope your AC is working – it is going to get hot! If you planted trees, shrubs, perennials, or annuals this spring it is now time to think about how to help them beat the heat. Does that mean to get out the hose and start watering? Perhaps. However before unraveling the hose to water plants, there are a few details to consider.

Newly planted trees and shrubs will need to be watered through the summer months.

Plants that were grown in small containers will need watering every 4 to 7 days.
Trees and shrubs in larger containers may need watering every 7 to 10 days.

Set the hose at the base of the plant and run water at a slow trickle – 5 to 10 minutes for small trees and shrubs and 10 to 20 minutes for larger. Less frequent watering is needed with rain and cool temperatures – more frequent watering is needed with no rain and warm temperatures.

Annuals and perennials have smaller root systems than trees and shrubs. These will need watering every 3 to 4 days. Water thoroughly and deeply.

Before watering, make a point to check the soil around plants for moisture content. If the soil around the base of a plant looks or feels damp, watering can be suspended until the soil moisture has diminished. If the soil looks or feels dry, it is likely time to water.

Supplemental watering of new plants is only needed until the onset of cooler weather this fall. Until then enjoy the swimming, grill-outs, picnics and all that summer has to offer!

Questions? 

Call us at 513-385-3313 or email at info@whiteoakgardens.com.

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