Nothing is more important to your new plants and landscape than proper hand watering. As landscaping maintenance specialists, we know a thing or two about how to get the most life out of your freshly planted greenery, so read on to find out more.
Understanding Plant Watering Needs
Water every day for the first week after your plants are installed. Water three times per week for the next two weeks. Water one–two times per week for the rest of the season and in the summer of the following year.
Water 1 – 2 times daily if temperatures get into the 90s. Water on this schedule regardless of rain, unless you have steady rain for three hours or more on a scheduled watering day. Watering significantly more than this schedule can result in over-watering. Overwatered plants can have the same look as underwatered plants. Annual flower planting will generally require more water than described here.
Below are watering techniques for a variety of plants like shrubs and perennials as well as watering techniques for your lawn. In general, water your plants slowly and at a low rate to allow the water to soak into the soil effectively. Ask us about automatic temporary watering system options.
Essential Tools for Hand Watering
When it comes to hand watering your plants, having the right tools can make all the difference. Invest in a quality watering can or watering wand for precise control over water flow. Additionally, a hose with an adjustable nozzle allows you to customize the water pressure to suit different plant needs. With these essential tools on hand, you’ll be able to ensure that your plants receive the perfect amount of water to thrive.
Techniques for Effective Hand Watering
Hand Watering Shrubs
The best way to hand water shrubs is to adjust your hose nozzle or your spigot valve so that the water comes out at a relatively slow trickle. Next, put the hose at the base of the shrub and let the water soak into the soil around the base of the plant.
The water should disappear into the soil, not run off. Do this for thirty – sixty seconds per shrub, the larger the shrub the longer the soak. Do this for all of your new shrubs then go back to the one you started with and repeat. Do this 3 times per watering session. Some plants, such as hydrangeas, may need more water. If the plant leaves are drooping water them.
Hand watering perennials
Adjust your hose nozzle so that it is a consistent spray, not a mist or a stream but in between the two. Slowly and steadily apply water to the plants so that they get a good soak but the water is not running off. Imagine you are spray-painting something, you want good coverage but you do not want the paint to run! You may want to use a sprinkler when watering planting areas with many plants or on lawns. Give the plants three – five soakings during each watering session. Let the water disappear into the soil between soaking.
Hand watering new trees
Your new trees will need slow deep watering. Adjust your hose nozzle or your spigot valve so that the water comes out at a relatively slow trickle. Next, put the hose at the base of the tree and let the water soak into the soil around the base of the tree. The water should disappear into the soil, not run off. Do this for three – six minutes per tree, the larger the tree the longer the soak.
Do this for all of your new trees then go back to the one you started with and repeat. Do this 3 times per watering session. If your tree has a gator bag on it, insert a hose into the top of the bag turn with your spigot and nozzle fully open; fill the bag each watering session. The water should slowly trickle out of the bag over many hours. If the water quickly runs out or the bag does not completely empty there may be a problem.
Hand watering lawn
To ensure thorough watering, maintain even coverage across the lawn by employing the overlap technique with your watering can or hose. This method ensures every area receives sufficient water without any missed spots. When watering, proceed slowly and steadily to allow deep soil penetration and prevent runoff, adjusting your pace according to the soil’s absorption capacity. Target specific areas, such as those exposed to direct sunlight or near trees, and adjust the frequency of watering based on weather conditions and moisture needs.
Consider morning watering to minimize evaporation and reduce disease risk, and utilize a sprinkler attachment for larger lawn areas for efficient coverage. Consistency in your watering schedule is crucial for fostering healthy lawn growth and root development.
Tips for Conserving Water While Hand Watering
It is important to conserve your water so that your plants and lawn are effectively watered without wastage. Here are some simple ways to conserve water while hand watering plants or lawns:
- Water in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation.
- Direct the water at the base of the plant to avoid wastage.
- Use a watering can with a spout or a drip irrigation system for precise watering.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture in the soil.
- Monitor the weather forecast and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
End Note:
So there you have it, hand watering is important but doesn’t need to be difficult. If you’re interested in Eichenlaub helping maintain your newly planted landscape, why not get in touch with us? Contact us today!
