How Often to Water Newly Planted Shrubs in Fall

Fall is a great time to plant shrubs. During this season, the air is cooler, and the soil is still warm. Shrubs have plenty of time to establish roots before the winter sets in. However, watering your newly planted shrubs in fall is crucial. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to watering your shrubs:

Consider the Type of Soil

The type of soil you are dealing with will determine how often you should water your newly planted shrubs. Sandy soil drains water quickly, so you may need to water your shrubs more often than you would with clay soil. Clay soil retains water for longer, so you may not need to water your shrubs as often.

Check the Soil Moisture

One way to determine whether your shrubs need watering is to check the soil moisture. You can do this by sticking a finger in the soil to see how dry or moist it is. You can also use a soil moisture meter to get accurate readings. If the soil is dry to the touch or reads a low moisture level, it's time to water your shrubs.

Water Deeply

When you water your newly planted shrubs, make sure you water deeply. Shallow watering can encourage shallow root growth, which is not good for the long-term health of your shrubs. A deep watering will encourage the roots to grow down into the soil, which will help your shrubs stay healthy and strong.

Don't Overwater

While it's important to keep your newly planted shrubs hydrated, you don't want to overdo it. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for your shrubs. Make sure you check the soil moisture before watering and don't water if the soil is already moist.

Water in the Morning

Watering your newly planted shrubs in the morning is the best time of day. The air is cooler in the morning, which means less water will evaporate before it has a chance to soak into the soil. Watering in the morning also gives your shrubs time to dry out before the cooler evening temperatures set in, which can help prevent diseases caused by excess moisture on the leaves and stems.

Conclusion

Watering your newly planted shrubs in fall is essential to their survival. Make sure you consider the type of soil, check the soil moisture, water deeply, avoid overwatering, and water in the morning for best results. With the right care, your shrubs will establish strong roots and thrive for years to come.