Watering Guide For New Plants
Helping your new landscape thrive from day one.
Watering New Perennials, Trees & Shrubs
When to Begin
Start watering as soon as your plants are installed. The first few weeks are the most important for root establishment.
General Schedule
| Timeline | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | Once a day | Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy |
| Weeks 2–4 | 1 or 2 a week | Begin to lengthen time between waterings |
| Weeks 5+ | Every other week | Adjust based on rainfall and temperature |
How Much Water
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Perennials: ½–1 gallon per plant per watering
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Shrubs: 2–5 gallons depending on size
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Trees: 10–20 gallons (use a slow trickle for 30–45 minutes)
Tip: Deep, slow watering encourages stronger roots than frequent light watering.
Best Time of Day
Early morning (5–9 a.m.) is ideal. Avoid watering during the heat of the day or late evening when evaporation or fungus can occur.
Checking Moisture
Insert your finger 2–3 inches into the soil:
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Cool & moist: Skip watering today.
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Dry & crumbly: Time to water.
Pro Tips
- Use a soaker hose or drip line for even watering
- Apply 2–3 inches of mulch to help retain moisture
- Avoid standing water, soggy soil can suffocate roots
Signs of Stress
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Leaves wilting, yellowing, or curling
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Soil that never dries out or smells sour
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New growth appearing weak or stunted
If you notice any of these, adjust your watering schedule and reach out to our team if you are unsure.
Email photos of the plant material:
- One close up photo of the plant or plants
- One photo from further away so we can see the location