Perennial plants are the backbone of many beautiful landscapes, returning year after year with vibrant blooms and lush foliage. But one of the most common mistakes homeowners make is improper watering. While water is essential for plant health, too much of it can be just as harmful as too little.
Let’s break down the essentials of watering plants so your Northern Virginia landscape thrives season after season.
🌱 Special Care for Newly Planted
Newly planted plants need extra attention as they establish roots in their new environment. Here’s how to support them during this critical phase:
🗓️ First 1–2 Weeks After Planting
- Water daily or every other day, depending on weather and soil drainage.
- Keep the root ball and surrounding soil consistently moist, but not soggy.
🗓️ Weeks 3–6
- Water 2–3 times per week.
- Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings to encourage deeper root growth.
🗓️ After 6 Weeks
- Transition to a regular watering schedule based on the plant’s mature needs (typically 1 inch per week, including rainfall).
đź’ˇ Tip: Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage as water on the foliage can lead to disease.
đź’§ When Should You Water Established Plants?
- Early Morning is Best: Watering in the early morning allows moisture to reach the roots before the heat of the day causes evaporation.
- Check the Soil First: Stick your finger about 1–2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait a day or two. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty – try a inexpensive water meter like Amazon.com: 3-in-1 Soil Test Kit, Soil Moisture Meter/Soil ph Meter/Fertility Soil Tester, Soil Hygrometer for Garden, Farm, Plant, Outdoor, Indoor, Lawn Care Moisture Meter for Hous Plants (No Battery Needed) : Patio, Lawn & Garden
đźšż How Much Water is Enough?
- General Rule: Most plants need about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
- Deep Watering is Key: Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deeper root growth.
- Mulch Helps: A 2–3 inch layer of mulch around your plants helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
⚠️ Signs of Overwatering
- Yellowing, mushy leaves
- Wilting, despite wet soil
- Root rot or foul-smelling soil
- Mold or fungal growth on the surface
🌵 Signs of Underwatering
- Dry, crispy leaves
- Persistent wilting
- Soil cracking or pulling away from the edges of the bed or container
🛠️ Tips for Success
- Use a Rain Gauge to track natural rainfall.
- Install Drip Irrigation for efficient, targeted watering.
🤝 Trust Your Area Manager & Our Maintenance Program
If you’re enrolled in our Landscape Maintenance Program, you’re already on the right track! Our team monitors plant health, soil conditions, and seasonal changes to ensure your landscape thrives.
Your Area Manager is your go-to expert. They understand your specific site conditions and plant varieties, and they’ll provide personalized watering recommendations based on moisture gauge readings. If they advise reducing or increasing watering, it’s based on real-time observations and professional insight.
🌟 Area Managers also monitor and adjust your irrigation system to ensure it’s delivering the right amount of water at the right time. This includes setting timers, adjusting zones, and making seasonal changes to match your landscape’s evolving needs.
✅ Please follow your Area Manager’s guidance closely—especially during the first few months after plant installation. Improper watering is one of the most common causes of plant stress and failure, and we want your investment to flourish.
🌼 Final Thoughts
Watering plants doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By understanding your plants’ needs—especially during the critical early weeks after planting—and listening to your Area Manager’s advice, you can strike the perfect balance. Be mindful, not generous, with your watering can—and your garden will thank you.