How Much Should You Water Newly Planted Shrubs?

Planting shrubs in your garden is a great way to add depth, texture, and interest to your landscaping. However, it is important to care for your new shrubs properly in order to ensure their survival and growth. One of the most important aspects of caring for newly planted shrubs is watering. But how much water do they actually need?

Consider Soil Type and Drainage

The amount of water your newly planted shrubs need depends largely on the type of soil you have and how well it drains. Sandy soil, for example, drains more quickly than clay soil. This means that sandy soil will require more frequent watering than clay soil. It is also important to pay attention to the soil drainage. If the soil is slow-draining and holds moisture for extended periods of time, then too much water can actually harm the roots of your shrubs.

Check Moisture Levels Regularly

It is important to check the moisture level of the soil regularly in order to determine if your shrubs need to be watered. You can do this by sticking your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry at this depth, then it is time to water. If the soil feels moist, then you can wait a little longer before watering again.

Consider the Season

The amount of water your newly planted shrubs need will also depend on the time of year. During the hot and dry summer months, shrubs will require more frequent watering than they will during the cooler and wetter seasons. It is important to increase watering during hot spells and to decrease watering during cooler spells in order to prevent over-watering or under-watering your shrubs.

Use the Right Tools

When it comes to watering newly planted shrubs, it is important to use the right tools. A gentle, slow-moving hose or watering can is ideal for watering shrubs. Avoid using a high-powered nozzle or spraying the shrubs with a jet of water, as this can damage the plant and cause it to become uprooted or stressed.

Water Deeply

When watering your shrubs, it is important to water deeply. This means soaking the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. This encourages the roots of your shrubs to grow deep into the soil and become more drought-resistant. Shallow watering, on the other hand, can cause the roots to stay close to the surface and become overly dependent on surface moisture.

In Summary

Watering newly planted shrubs requires a delicate balance. Too much water can cause roots to rot, while too little water can result in stunted growth and death. The amount of water your shrubs need depends on several factors, including soil type, drainage, season, and exposure to sunlight. Pay attention to the soil moisture levels, use the right tools, and water deeply to encourage root growth and ensure the survival and growth of your newly planted shrubs.