Unlock the Secret to Healthy Trees and Shrubs: Proper Watering

At Designs By Lee Inc, we understand the importance of proper watering for your newly planted trees and shrubs. Our watering instructions are designed to ensure your plants thrive in their new environment. Don't just take our word for it, read below to find out more. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Follow These Watering Instructions

• New plantings must be watered thoroughly 2 to 3 times weekly to saturate the soil to the bottom of the root ball.
• Note: thoroughly means fill the saucer around the plant to the top 2 to 3 times every time you water.
• If you are using a sprinkler to water, you must leave the sprinkler on for 4 to 5 hours, 2 to 3 times a week.
• Automatic sprinkler systems normally do not supply enough water for new trees and large shrubs for the first two years.
• A soaker hose can be used for a series of plants in a bed. The hose should circle the trunk or stem of each plant. leave the soaker hose on long enough for the water to penetrate to the bottom of the root ball. you may have to dig gently alongside the ball to be sure.
• Continue this watering for the first six weeks. then: twice a week for the next six weeks. after that: be sure your plants get at least 1 inch of water per week. do not count on normal rainfall to be enough.
• During June through September of the first two summers after planting: water at least twice a week.

Fertilizer

Fertilizer was applied at the time of planting. This is enough for the first growing season. After that, in October and early spring, your plants will benefit from an application of fertilizer. Apply fertilizer around the outer edge of the root ball at least 18” away from the stem.

Pruning

Different plants grow at different rates and in different shapes. The only pruning you need to do for the health of the plants is to remove dead or damaged branches promptly. If you want to prune for shape, be careful that you are not cutting next season’s blooms: many plants set the beds for next year’s blossoms soon after this season’s bloom. This includes azaleas, rhododendrons, lilac, hydrangea, and forsythia.