Once your plants are in the ground and you have given them their initial deep watering the first two or three days, it is up to you to keep them growing in an attractive, and healthy condition. Here are some HELPFUL HINTS:
- The first few years are the most critical. Weather and transplanting will cause stress in the plant. This is the time your plants will require the most attention.
- The most important factor is WATER. Without enough water, your plants stand little chance of survival. Be aware of your soil conditions and the water requirements to keep plants healthy. Newly planted plants in grass areas that have sprinklers require additional water.
- It is difficult to specify the exact amount of water your plant needs. Plant size, soil, drainage, and weather all play a factor in that decision.
- Deep Watering Examples
- Large shrubs and trees: Deep water for 30-45 minutes at 3 locations around "dripline" of plant.
- Small Shrubs: Deep water on two sides of plant for 30 minutes each side.
- Perennials: Deep water in one spot near plant base for 30 minutes.
- On slopes, water uphill from plant.
- September- November: Gradually reduce summer watering, from 3-4 deep waterings per week to 1-2 times per week to allow plants to "harden off". Hardening off reduces the chances of wood damage that can occur from early freezing temperatures. Give your plants deep watering in late fall (early Nov.) before the ground freezes. "Deep" watering as the ground is freezing is especially important for first and second year plants. Root systems are not well established and require ground moisture (even if frozen). Conifers (spruce, pine, fir, etc.) require moisture year-round, so this is important for them every year.
- Slow Drainage: Plants growing in poorly drained clay soils require less frequent watering. It is very important with this type of soil not to overwater; this can kill the plant. Consider two deep waterings per week in summer.
- Fast Drainage: Plants growing in gravel or sand conditions will drain fast and require water more frequently. Consider four deep waterings per week in summer.
- Weather: Especially in Montana, weather affects watering in an obvious manner. In hot, dry, or windy weather, watering requirements will be much greater. In wet, cool weather watering can be reduced. Don't let summer rain showers fool you into thinking you don't have to water. Most rains are quick and NOT deep soaking.
- Always add mulch or compost around the base of your plant. Add 3" of mulch or 1 to 2" of compost. Use your common sense when it comes to watering. Consider soil, mulch, seasons, site, and exposure.
- Fertilizing should be in the form of slow release fertilizer packets or liquid fertilizers. Slow release fertilizer packets can be incorporated into planting, or liquid fertilizers can be used into the season. Fertilizing should be done by mid-season. When planting, it is important to add organic matter like EKO compost.
- Wrapping of trees: Wrap young trees, mountain ash, and sometimes lindens. Wrap in late fall and remove wrap in spring. This helps with bark splitting caused by winter sun burn.
- Tree protectors (especially on softwood like aspen) should be used for deer protection.
- Pest and disease control is not a daily or weekly task. Simply be alert to anything that looks unnatural (holes in leaves, growth on branches, discoloration of foliage, extreme need drop, etc.) If your find a problem call, or bring in a sample. We will be more than happy to help you out.
- Remember that your guarantee of healthy and beautiful plants is the care you give them.
Thanks from the staff at Gardenwerks
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