Our customers want to take the best care of their projects once we finish an installation. We often share care and watering tips with them on site, but sometimes they are at work, on vacation or away for any number of reasons. Also, many prefer to have the directions written out for them as it can be easy to forget, or stressful wondering if you forgot something important.
Here are our suggestions for taking the best care of your new plantings.
Watering
Trees-
Over the next few weeks and months water and observe as necessary until the tree is fully established.
- Water daily for 1-2 weeks; then 2-3 days for 3-12 weeks; then weekly until established
- Apply 1-1.5 gallons per inch of trunk caliper* at each watering
- For fruit trees, stay closer to 1gal/inch especially if in heavier or clay soils unless you see signs of drying
*Caliper refers to the diameter of the trunk 6" above the ground (or 12" high if larger than 4" caliper)
A smaller tree will take nearly a full growing season to become fully established. A 2" tree may require two years to become fully established on its own while a 3" tree may need three years. The larger the tree, the bigger the shock so continue to be diligent in keeping an eye on things even long after the initial planting.
Although not always accurate, you can guess the reason for stress by where you see wilting leaves - Wilting higher in the tree can indicate not enough water and if wilting or browning occurs lower in the tree it may signal too much water. Adjust your watering plan accordingly.
Shrubs-
Over the next few weeks and months water and observe as necessary until the plant is fully established.
- Water daily for 1-2 weeks; then 2-3 days for 3-12 weeks; then weekly until established
- Apply 1/4 to 1+ gallon at each watering depending on container size (#1-5)
Perennials-
Over the next few weeks and months they will need watered as necessary until the plant is fully established.
- Water daily for 1-2 weeks; then 2-3 days for 3-12 weeks; then weekly until established
- Apply 1/4 to 1/2 gallon at each watering depending on plant/container size
Typically perennials will take a growing season to become fully established.
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| Sprinklers can help cover large areas |
Mulching
Too much mulch or piling mulch against a trunk can be a problem. Leave a few inches between your mulch and the trunk to prevent fungal infection. Mulch deeper than 4" can also keep water from reaching the soil and roots during lighter rains, as well as other problems.
Avoid the "Mulch Volcano" and think of using more of a flattened mulch donut.
Protection
Pests like rabbits and deer can really do a number on young plantings. Even if a plant is described as resistant, rabbits and deer don't read books! A wire cage or tree guard may be warranted. During the winter, protection can be even more important as many typical foods are dormant or under snow, causing deer and rabbits to eat things they wouldn't normally eat. Male deer will also rub their antlers on younger trees during the fall rut. This can damage the bark on unprotected trees allowing pests or disease in, or even break off a young tree entirely.
With the right care your new plants will be off to a great start providing years of enjoyment. Whether it's a new shade tree for the patio, new berry bushes by the garden or a whole food forest, you can give your project the best chance of success with these simple tips!
Best wishes on your new project!
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