Newly planted trees and shrubs need 1½ to 2 inches of irrigation per week from April through mid to late October. Rainfall can only be relied on if more than 1 inch falls per episode, and the plant is in a position to receive it.

We recommend soaking new trees and shrubs 2–3 times a week for 15 min to start. Then during the hottest, driest weather give the plant more water, but less frequently. The best technique is a slow trickle from a hose, mimicking steady rainfall. Most new perennials and annuals should be watered more frequently, but for a much shorter period of time. These herbaceous plants typically don’t root as deeply and should receive water 3 times a week. They are best watered using a wand on a hose end or other “water-breaking” device to supply a gentle, thorough shower of water for a few minutes each.

An organic mulch (pine bark, needles, hardwood bark, compost) is also recommended to conserve soil moisture, moderate soil temperature, and discourage weed competition. It also provides an essential mower/string trimmer barrier. No more than 2–3 inches of mulch is necessary- avoid the plant’s trunk!