Watering Guide

Watering Directions

Watering is the most important factors in helping new plants get established and it’s also where most people unintentionally run into trouble. Before we begin, keep in mind: these are general guidelines for most trees and shrubs. Not every plant has identical needs. If you ever have questions about a specific plant, reach out. We’re always happy to help!

1

When you first plant a tree or shrub, the goal is to thoroughly soak the root ball.

For the first 2–3 days, water slowly and deeply using a gentle trickle from the hose at the base of the plant for 30–45 minutes.

If planting during the heat of summer, extend this daily deep watering to 6–8 days.

Slow and steady is key! You want the water to soak in, not run off.

2

After those first few days, check soil moisture daily for about two weeks. If the top 6 inches of soil feels dry, water deeply.
Always direct water at the root zone — not the leaves.

The goal is consistent moisture, not constant saturation.

3

During the first full growing season, your plant is establishing its root system. Continue checking soil moisture regularly and adjust watering based on rainfall, temperature, and soil type. Refer to the table below for more info on this.

Again - if the soil feels dry about 6 inches below the surface, it’s time to water.

Be careful not to overdo it though!

Many newly planted trees are lost not from drought — but from overwatering. Plants should never sit in standing water for long periods.

4

Once established, most trees and shrubs require less frequent watering. Continue checking soil weekly during dry periods and water as needed.

Deep, occasional watering encourages strong root growth.

*

Pay attention to the soil between waterings.

If it dries out very quickly, you may need to water more often.

If it stays soggy for long periods, reduce watering frequency.

Improving soil structure can also help with both drainage and moisture retention. We carry products that can help amend your soil if needed!

It’s common for new plants to drop a few leaves or appear wilted while adjusting to their new home — especially in summer. This is called transplant shock.

With consistent watering and time, most plants recover within a few months.

To support root development, we often recommend products like Fertilome Root Stimulator or BioChar Vital Blend, available in-store.

NOTICING ISSUES? Contact Us if your plant exhibits any of these symptoms after 2 - 3 months:

- Excessive wilting or leaf loss

- Brown "burn spots on leaves"

- Stunted, small new growth

- Yellowing of interior leaves

The following are approximate quantities of water you should apply to your newer plants each time you water.

Refer to the larger table below to determine how frequently you should water. For periods of rain (1/2" or more) adjust accordingly by possibly skipping a watering session for that day if need be. During periods where daytime high temperature exceeds 95ºF, please provide at least 1 additional watering time per week

2-5 Gallon Container

7-10 Gallon Container

15-25 Gallon Container

1.5"-2" Caliper

2"-3" Caliper

3"+ Caliper

Size of Plant

2-3 Gallons

3-4 Gallons

4-5 Gallons

5-10 Gallons

10-15 Gallons

15-20+ Gallons

Amount of Water

4-5 Gallons

6-7 Gallons

7-9 Gallons

10-15 Gallons

15-18 Gallons

20-23+ Gallons

Amount of Water if Temps Exceed 95ºF

Ways to Water

Water Hose - In our opinion, the best and most efficient method is to apply water directly to the soil by running a hose right up to the base of the stem/trunk and leaving it on at a slow trickle. Or, use a soaker hose to water over the root system.

Drip Irrigation - Drip or trickle irrigation is one of the most effective and water-efficient methods of watering. The system discharges small quantities of water on a regular basis directly to the root zone under a tree or shrub. Very little water is lost through evaporation.

"Gator Bags" - Tree watering bags placed at the base of newly planted trees and shrubs provide a slow method of delivering water to the roots. They are often used by commercial landscapers but are available for retail customers here at our store. A five-gallon bucket with one or two small holes drilled into the bottom will work similarly to a tree watering bag. The name of the game for these options is fill and walk away!

Sprinklers - While not our most recommended or preferred option for newly planted trees and shrubs, sprinklers can be portable and moved around the landscape as needed or they can be permanently-installed systems. The uniformity of watering depends on the type of sprinklers used, water pressure, and wind conditions. Closely monitor watering patterns to make sure targeted plants receive adequate water. Overhead watering by showering the foliage instead of the root zone can also increase disease problems, especially if the water sits on the leaves for a prolonged period of time and/or overnight.

Watering Tips & Info

Watering isn’t about following a strict calendar — it’s about paying attention. The right amount of water, at the right time, makes all the difference in helping your plants thrive long-term. If you’re ever unsure? Bring us your questions. That’s what we’re here for!

Water in the Morning

Watering in the mornings gives plants a chance to absorb the moisture before the hot sun or strong winds evaporate the water. It also allows the leaves to dry before evening. Remember that frequent wet foliage during the night can lead to fungal diseases.

Water Only When Needed

Water timers are a great invention, but you should not automatically water your lawn and garden without checking the moisture. Good watering starts with knowing your soil. If you’re ever unsure whether you’re watering too much or too little these quick checks can make a big difference in long-term plant health.

Stick your finger into the soil past the first knuckle. If it feels moist, wait. If it’s dry, it’s time to water.
One of the best ways to understand how water moves through your soil is to run a simple drainage test. Dig a hole about 1–2 feet deep and fill it with water. Then watch how quickly it drains: If it drains within 1–2 hours - good drainage. If it drains over several hours/ overnight - Adequate drainage. If water remains longer than that - Poor drainage. Poor drainage doesn’t mean you can’t plant there. It just means you may need to adjust your plant selection or improve the soil before planting.
A rain gauge is a simple tool that helps you understand how much natural water your garden is receiving. Place it in an open area of your yard. Once a week, record the amount of rainfall and empty it. Over time, you can calculate your weekly average rainfall and better determine when supplemental watering is needed. Sometimes nature is doing more of the watering than we realize.
Moisture meters are especially helpful for large containers or hard-to-reach planting areas. They give you a quick reading at the root level so you can tell whether the soil is wet, moist, or dry. They’re a great tool if you prefer a little extra reassurance before watering.

Water Deeply

The best way to water is to apply it at a rate that the soil will absorb without runoff. This allows the water to penetrate deeply into the soil and will help your plants to grow deep and strong root systems creating fuller and more resilient plants.

Watering Evergreens

Trees or shrubs that have needles or leaves that remain green on the plant through the winter should be deeply watered in the fall before the ground freezes if precipitation has been insufficient. Evergreens continue to lose water during the winter, especially when the temperature is above 40°F and on sunny, windy days. If the soil is dry, the plants may become desiccated, turn brown, and die, even if those symptoms don’t become obvious until spring.

Watering Container Plants Outside

In hot weather, plants in containers may need to be watered every day and sometimes even twice a day depending on the size of the pot. Water until the water comes out the drainage hole at the bottom. It is important to not let plants in containers sit in water. Always make sure their saucers are empty and that you have good drainage.

Benefits of Mulching

Mulching reduces surface runoff when watering and slows evaporation increasing moisture retention. As an added bonus mulching will add nutrients to the soil around your plants as it decomposes over time and in some cases, it may also prevent certain kinds of soil diseases from coming into contact with your plant's foliage.