General Information

Watering your new plants, bushes, and trees is vital to their survival. Given ever-changing weather conditions, there are no precise watering instructions. We’ll provide essential watering tips to ensure your new plantings establish strong roots and thrive for years to come.

Flores Landscapes will water your new plantings immediately after they are installed. We will also continue to water them as we work in your yard and can discuss the temporary installation of a drip irrigation system with you.

After the completion of our work, please follow the watering guidelines outlined below. Much like caring for houseplants, you’ll need to assess when watering is necessary. The most effective way to check is by gently brushing aside the hardwood mulch (or stone) at the base of the plant and touching the soil. If the soil is moist, you do not need to water. If it is dry, watering is required.

Watering Guidelines

INITIAL WATERING: After planting, water deeply to thoroughly saturate both the root ball and the surrounding soil. Be sure to water the plant again the following day to help it settle in.

• 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.

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 drip line; for perennials and annuals, thoroughly moisten the soil at the base.

How to Water

• Adjust the hose to low pressure to create a slow trickle.
• Place the hose over the plants roots (the root ball, or the soil from the plant pot).
• Water smaller plants (spirea or rose) for 1-2 minutes. When water has started to run away from the plant or puddle, you can stop.
• Larger plants (evergreen trees and shade trees) will need the water to trick.le for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Please move the hose around the plant every 3-5 minutes so the entire root zone gets water.
• Evergreens and shade trees that are planted in lawn areas that are being watered will also require watering for only 5 minutes every other day during the first week and every third day during the second week.
• It is important to allow the soil to dry very slightly between waterings. A constantly soggy wet soil deprives the roots of needed oxygen and will drown the plant.
• The length of time for watering and the frequency of watering should be adjusted depending on temperature, wind, and rain as outlined above.

The Most Efficient Methods of Watering

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.

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.

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