Following along the dry weather theme, we have been getting asked frequently about best practices for watering larger plants.

The rule of thumb for trees and shrubs can be looked at in these three ways:

1) Newly planted specimens require regular deep watering right into the fall. Regularly means about every seven days, and deeply means so that the water soaks well into the soil, encouraging roots to spread down rather than staying close to the surface. The ground around the base of the plant should look and feel moist after watering. A soaker hose is ideal, as a slow but longer watering is most effective.

2) Plants in their second year also require regular deep watering. In fact, for the first couple of years the main focus is on establishing fabulous roots, and watering is #1 one of the list of ways to make this happen.

3) Even established trees appreciate deep watering as we head into fall, particularly if we have had a dry summer. Watering in fall helps hardy trees survive the winter with less stress.

Very few trees do poorly if given extra water, but if you are wondering about a specific species do a little research to get the details.