Tips for Watering Your New Landscaping Project

When temperatures in Central Ohio climb into the 90s, keeping your newly planted landscaping healthy can become a real challenge. Whether you’re tending to flowers, bushes, or trees, watering properly in extreme heat is essential. With the right techniques and a little planning, you can help your plants stay hydrated and thrive even during a heatwave.

In hot weather, plants cool themselves through evapotranspiration—drawing water from the soil, up through their roots, and releasing it through their leaves. As temperatures rise, this process accelerates, requiring more water to maintain plant health. Without adequate moisture, plants may wilt, flowers may drop, and roots can weaken.

To minimize water loss from evaporation, water early in the morning when temperatures are cooler. This ensures the moisture reaches the root zone before the sun dries it up. If morning watering isn’t possible, try to water in the evening—but avoid soaking the leaves, as this can lead to mildew.

Consistency is crucial for healthy plant growth. A regular watering schedule tailored to your soil type, plant needs, and sunlight exposure helps ensure your garden thrives. Test soil moisture 1–2 inches deep to determine when your plants need water, and aim to keep the soil evenly moist

To avoid water waste and ensure deep moisture penetration, use a slow watering technique. Here are some options for efficient watering:

• Soaker Hoses: These hoses deliver water directly to the plant’s base, minimizing evaporation and ensuring moisture reaches the roots.
• Low-Pressure Hose or Watering Wand: A slower water application prevents runoff, ensuring water soaks deep into the soil.
  
• Drip Irrigation: An efficient system for delivering water directly to the root zone.

• Initial Watering: Right after planting, water thoroughly to saturate both the root ball and the surrounding soil. Water again the next day to help the plant settle in.

• Ongoing Care:
  • First week: Water daily.
  • Weeks 2–3: Water every 1–2 days to keep the soil consistently moist (If temperatures are excessive, test the soil daily to ensure it is moist).
  • After 3 Weeks: Gradually reduce watering to every 2–3 days, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
  • After 12 Weeks: Water weekly until the roots are well-established. Establishing a healthy root system is especially important for newly planted flowers, shrubs, and trees. Here’s how to give your new plants the best start.

• Rain will reduce the amount of watering you need to do.
• Wind will increase the amount of watering you need to do.
• The higher the temperature, the more watering you need to do.
• Sandy soils will require more frequent watering than clay soils.

• Deep Watering: To encourage deep root growth, make sure water reaches the full root zone, not just the surface. For trees and shrubs, water at the base or around the dripline; for perennials and annuals, moisten the soil thoroughly at the base.

• Check Moisture Levels: Before watering, use the finger test to check if the soil is dry 2–3 inches below the surface.
• Weather-Dependent Adjustments: During hot, dry spells, increase watering frequency to 3-4 times a week. If it rains enough (about 1 inch), skip watering for the week.

Additional Tips

• Mulch: Add a layer of mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and keep roots cool.
• Avoid Overhead Watering: This can promote fungal diseases like mildew, so water directly at the base of the plant.
  
• Monitor Plant Health: Look out for signs of stress such as wilting leaves, yellowing, or crispy edges, which can indicate underwatering or overwatering.

Understanding Your Plants’ Needs

Some plants naturally droop in the midday heat and revive by evening—this is normal. However, if plants stay wilted despite cooler temperatures, they likely need water. Watch for signs like dry soil and discolored or crispy leaves to determine when it’s time to act.

Proper watering is essential to keeping your plants healthy during Central Ohio’s hot weather. By watering at the right time, using efficient methods like soaker hoses, and adjusting your approach based on your plants’ needs, you can maintain a vibrant garden all summer. You can also download our “Watering Guidelines & Tips” here and our “Care Instructions for Your Newly Seeded Yard” here.  

If you live in Powell, Lewis Center, Delaware, Dublin, Plain City, or anywhere in Central Ohio and need help with a beautiful, hearty, and sustainable landscaping design, reach out to our team at Flores Landscaping and Patio.

Call us today at (614) 893-3881 or visit floreslandscapes.com to schedule your complimentary assessment.