Care Instructions

New Planting Care: Best Practices

Watering Guidelines:
Install an Irrigation System: Use a drip irrigation or soaker hose for efficient, deep watering. This ensures water is delivered slowly and directly to the root zone. If this is not possible then ensure each plant receives a daily deep root watering (possibly more during peak heat).

Watering Schedule for New Plants:

For the first 1-2 weeks, water new plants daily. Using a slow drip soaker hose, ensure plants receive 2-3 hours of slow watering in the early morning (before 9 a.m.) to prevent evaporation and ensure deep penetration.

After the first 2 weeks, reduce to watering every 2-3 days for up to 3 months, depending on the plant type and weather conditions.

After 3 months, water 1-2 times per week during the growing season (spring through fall) unless there is sufficient rain. During peak heat the plants will require watering every 2-3 days even after they are established.

If a slow drip soaker hose is not possible you must water sufficiently by hand with a hose sprayer on a light setting. It is important to ensure the entire root ball is thoroughly soaked, which typically means the water should reach a depth of at least 8-12 inches. You can test this by digging a small hole around the plant to see if moisture reaches this depth.
Avoid overwatering. Check if the soil is soggy or muddy, which can lead to root rot. Aim for moist, well-drained soil.

Drought Conditions:

During hot, dry spells, increase watering to compensate for moisture loss due to heat. Watch for signs of stress such as wilting or brown leaf edges.

Rainfall Monitoring:

Sustained, moderate rain (1-2 inches per week) is typically enough to substitute regular watering. Always adjust watering schedules based on actual rainfall amounts.

Soil and Mulching:

Soil Moisture Testing: After watering, dig down about 12 inches around the root ball to ensure the soil is damp but not waterlogged. The soil should feel slightly moist but not sticky.

Mulch Application: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (such as bark, wood chips, or compost) around the base of the plant. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Weed and Pest Control:

Weed Management: Keep the area around the plant free from weeds that compete for water and nutrients. Hand-pull weeds or apply a weed barrier to prevent their growth. (mulch can be used as a weed barrier)

Pest Protection: Regularly inspect for pests such as aphids, caterpillars, or beetles. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestations occur.

Fertilization:

Spring Fertilization: In early spring, apply an organic, slow-release fertilizer, such as one with an NPK ratio of 18-8-8. Follow the package directions carefully. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the drip line (the outer edge of the plant's branches), avoiding direct contact with the trunk or stem.

Feeding Frequency: Feed plants once in early spring and again in mid-summer if needed, ensuring the soil is damp before fertilizing to avoid root burn.

Seasonal Care:

Spring and Summer: Focus on watering and feeding your plants during their peak growing season. Deadhead flowers to encourage further blooming, and prune shrubs as needed.

Fall Preparation: Water plants thoroughly before the first frost to help them retain moisture during the winter. Avoid heavy pruning before winter to protect new growth from cold damage.

Winter Protection: For tender perennials and young shrubs, apply extra mulch around the base to insulate the roots. Consider using burlap or frost cloth to protect sensitive plants during cold snaps.

Reminder

This guide provides general care instructions, as it is not possible to cover every situation. Each plant species may have unique requirements based on its growing conditions, so always adjust accordingly. Feel free to research specific plant needs or care requirements for situations not mentioned in this sheet.