How to Water Newly Planted Arborvitae

Arborvitae is a popular evergreen shrub that can add beauty, privacy, and shade to your garden. However, like any other newly planted shrub, it needs proper care and attention to establish strong roots and thrive. Watering is one of the most crucial aspects of arborvitae care. Here are some tips on how to water newly planted arborvitae.

Watering Frequency

When it comes to watering arborvitae, overwatering and under watering are both harmful. Therefore, you need to strike a balance and water the shrub just enough to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering largely depends on the weather conditions and the soil type. In general, newly planted arborvitae needs to be watered deeply at least once a week for the first few months until it establishes roots. During hot and dry weather, you may need to water once every two to three days.

Watering Technique

The watering technique is as important as the frequency. When watering arborvitae, you should avoid watering the foliage and instead focus on the soil around the base of the shrub. Watering the foliage can lead to fungal diseases and sunburn. You should use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to water the shrub slowly and deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the soil and reach the roots. If you don't have a soaker hose or drip irrigation, you can use a watering can or a garden hose with a nozzle attachment that produces a soft and gentle spray. Avoid using high-pressure sprays that can damage the shrub.

Watering Amount

The amount of water you provide to arborvitae largely depends on the size of the shrub and the soil type. In general, you should water the shrub enough to provide one inch of water per week. However, if you have sandy soil, you may need to water more frequently but for a shorter duration to prevent the water from draining away too quickly. On the other hand, if you have clay soil, you may need to water less frequently but for a longer duration to allow the water to penetrate deep into the soil.

Watering Time

The best time to water arborvitae is in the morning, preferably before 10 am. Watering in the morning allows the water to penetrate the soil and reach the roots before the heat of the day sets in. Watering in the evening or at night can promote fungal diseases as the moisture remains on the foliage and soil for an extended period. Similarly, watering in the middle of the day can cause the water to evaporate quickly, leaving the soil dry and the shrub thirsty.

Conclusion

Watering newly planted arborvitae requires proper care and attention to ensure its successful growth and development. By following the tips mentioned above, you can establish a watering regimen that works best for your arborvitae and soil conditions. Remember to water deeply, but not too often, using a soaker hose or drip irrigation, avoiding watering the foliage, and watering in the morning for optimal results.