6 Tips to Master Fall Watering

1. Watering Schedule for Newly Planted Plants:
   • Focus on proper watering for the first year, especially during the first fall, and potentially the second and third years to establish new roots.
   • Improper watering (either too dry or too wet) is the primary reason for new plants struggling or dying, particularly during a fall drought stress going into winter.
2. Factors Affecting Watering Needs:
   • Understand that different factors such as soil type, container versus balled and burlap plants, varying plant water needs, weather, and seasons will influence watering requirements.
3. Initial 3-4 Weeks After Planting:
   • Begin a regular watering routine of deep, thorough soaking.
   • Allow the soil to approach dryness before soaking again.
   • Frequency may range from every 3-5 days to every 7-10 days.
   • Monitor soil moisture to determine the next watering.
4. Evergreen Plants:
   • Continue watering evergreens as needed until the Holidays, and possibly once or twice during winter if it remains dry.
   • Maintain a balance – let the soil breathe between waterings by allowing it to get “close to dry.”
5. Watering and Rainfall:
   • Established landscape plants ideally require 1 inch of rainfall every 7-10 days for optimal growth.
   • Note that unless there is a prolonged or heavy rain, newly planted trees and shrubs may not receive sufficient moisture from rainfall alone.
   • Check soil moisture using physical touch or a Moisture Meter, and water as needed, considering rainfall as a bonus.
6. Consistency is Key:
   • Missing a watering during dry periods in the fall can jeopardize the success of your new plant, potentially undermining the time, effort, and investment you’ve put into it.
   • Ensuring proper fall watering is crucial for the success of your new plant in the following year.

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