Wallin Farms
Greenhouses & Nursery
Growers of annuals

Watering guidelines for In-ground plant material

The first growing season is the most important time for getting your plants established.  Your plants should be checked approximately once a week for the first month (in dry weather, check more frequently), after that, water when needed.  Newly planted trees shrubs, annuals and perennials are very susceptible to drought stress until the roots have moved out into the surrounding soil.

You will need to check the soil around your plants for adequate moisture.  This can be done by making a small hole with a trowel 6" deep and sticking your finger in to check for moisture.  The soil should be cool, moist and crumbly.  You should avoid either dusty or muddy conditions.

When to Water
ALWAYS CHECK SOIL BEFORE WATERING
Watering depends on soil type, exposure, time of year and type of plant:
    The lighter the soil, the more frequent the waterings. 
    Plants in full sun and especially those with a southern exposure will need more water than plants in the shade. 
        However, plants under large shade trees will need more frequent waterings due to competition from surrounding
        tree roots. 
    Late spring and summer bring extremely hot, dry weather.  It is very important to check your plants for watering
        needs more often during these seasons.  If you plan to go on vacation during this period, arrange to have your
        plants watered. 
    If there's a dry fall, make sure your plants go into the winter with enough moisture to prevent winter damage. 
        This can be done by soaking the plant just before the first freeze date.
NOTE:  Broadleaf evergreens (i.e. Azaleas, Hollies, Rhododendrons) require more water prior to first freeze than
           needle leaved evergreens (i.e. Juniper, Pines).

How to Water
Use a hose with a breaker nozzle or break the stream of water with your thumb
Do NOT use a pistol grip or similar spray nozzle
Put the hose at the base of the plant
Water thoroughly:
    for small plants approximately 2 to 3 minutes
    for larger plants approximately 5 to 10 minutes
            this will allow water to soak deeply into the soil
NOTE:  Most short rains (i.e. thunderstorms) are not sufficient enough to substitute for a good watering!

Water large areas with a sprinkler
One inch or water is sufficient to soak the ground to a depth of six inches. 
    To measure, place a coffee can in the area and water until one inch is collected in the can.
NOTE:  A good soaking is better than several light sprinklings.
            To avoid fungal problems, it is best to water Azalea and Rhododendron beds with a soaker hose
                instead of a sprinkler so you are watering the soil instead of the plant material