Watering Tips for New or Seeded Lawns

Thoroughly soak 6” of soil after sowing seeds
New lawns may require watering 3 to 4 times a day
Soil must stay moist for all the grass seeds to germinate
Use a fine spray or mist to prevent washing away seeds and soil.
Avoid standing water

Tree and Shrub Watering Instructions
The roots of newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials must not dry out completely. This is especially important during the first growing season, since such stress may kill the plant. Here are some tips on how and when to water your newly planted trees & shrubs.

HOW
1. Remove the nozzle from your hose and place it approximately six inches from the stem or trunk.

2. Apply small stream of water (1/4”) to soak the ground for 3 to 15 minutes depending on plant size.

3. Or, use a Gator Bag watering device for each tree and fill every 3 days (ask about this time saving watering device)

4. Shade, pine and spruce trees all require different amounts of water:
– Perennials 1 minute
– Shrubs 3 minutes
– Ornamentals (Flowering Crabs, etc. ) 10 minutes
– Evergreens (6’ ht) 15 minutes
– Deciduous (2 1/2” Cal.) 15 minutes (add 15 minutes to every additional inch of caliper)

5. Use the wire test to make sure you are watering adequately (this should be done before you water).
– Cut a coat hanger and straighten to a length of 12”
– Push wire into the soil approximately 6-12” from the base of the plant
– Remove the wire
– If the wire is clear or dusty … Water the plants
– If the wire comes out muddy … The soil is too wet
– If the wire comes out moist with a small amount of soil clinging to it … The soil is properly watered
– If the wire will not penetrate … Water immediately

WHEN

As a quick reference (under normal conditions):
In the morning or evening avoid afternoon watering
April 15 – May 15 Water once a week
May 16 – Sept 15 Water twice a week
Sept 16 – Oct 31 Water once a week
Mid-November – Early December Water once when the soil is not frozen

CAUTION: MORE TREES AND PLANTS ARE KILLED BY TOO MUCH WATER THAN TOO LITTLE. OVER WATERING CAUSES SUFFOCATING AND ROTTING OF THE ROOTS!