Ensuring your plants thrive involves several key elements:
- WATER
- FERTILIZER
- INSECT AND FUNGUS CONTROL
- MAINTENANCE
- WINTER PROTECTION AND CARE
Watering: Proper hydration is critical immediately after planting. Many plant issues are related to improper watering—either too much or too little. Soil type significantly affects water needs; sandy soils dry out quickly, while clay soils retain moisture and can easily become waterlogged. To ensure proper hydration, immerse the rootball thoroughly during each watering session, but adjust the frequency based on the soil’s retention capacity. The best way to judge if you’re watering correctly is by conducting a soil test. Dig down 6-8 inches, grab a handful of soil, and squeeze. If it forms a moist clump, it’s ideal. If it crumbles, it’s too dry, and if it’s soggy or smells sour, it’s too wet.
Monitoring Plant Health: Observe your plants closely. Wilting often indicates under-watering, while yellowing may suggest waterlogging. Initially, water your plants heavily to establish them, tapering off as they acclimate. Regular soil tests can guide your watering schedule adjustments.
Seasonal Watering Schedule:
- First Week: Daily or every other day in clay soils.
- Spring (March 20 – June 20): Thrice weekly, or twice in clay soils.
- Summer (June 20 – September 22): Four times weekly, or three times in clay soils.
- Fall (September 22 – December 21): Three times weekly if temperatures are above 40°F with no snow, twice weekly in clay soils.
- Winter (December 21 – March 20): Twice monthly, watering only in the morning if temperatures are above 45°F with no snow.
General Watering Guidelines:
- Deciduous Trees: 10 gallons per inch of trunk diameter.
- Evergreen Trees: 5 gallons for every 3 feet of tree height.
- Container Plants: Water amounts based on container size: #1 = 2 gallons, #2 = 4 gallons, #3 = 6 gallons, #5 = 10 gallons.
Drip Systems: Understand the emitter’s drip rate and adjust the timer accordingly. Emitters typically range from 1 to 5 gallons per hour.
Fertilization:
- New Trees: Use Agriform tablets at planting and potentially within the first year.
- Established Trees: Fertilize from April through August for optimal health.
Always follow specific product instructions to avoid over-fertilization and potential plant damage. Regular checks and adjustments based on the plant’s response to care routines are essential for maintaining a healthy garden.