Native Plant Guide Version 10-06-2023 | Page 71

The following guidelines are general recommendations . Individual plants may have specific water requirements . Newly planted perennials and shrubs need daily watering for approximately one week . This may vary depending on exposure to sun and air temperature . They will need supplemental watering throughout their first growing season during dry stretches . Additional water may be required if your plants show signs of occasional wilting . The watering plant schedule below assumes that the plants have been established . It is important to monitor your plants , observe their responses to watering , and make adjustments as needed to ensure their health . Consult with your irrigation specialist to determine the volume of water and duration needed based on your specific landscape conditions and plants .
General Irrigation Tips :
• Watering Depth : Water deeply to encourage deep root growth . This helps plants become more resilient to drought conditions . Deep less frequent watering is preferable to shallow frequent watering .
• Watering Technique : Apply water directly to the soil around the base of the plant , avoiding overhead watering whenever possible and using drip irrigation if possible . This reduces the risk of foliage diseases and promotes efficient water absorption . It is suggested that plants receive a total 1.25 to 1.5 inches of water per week .
• Mulching : Apply three inches of organic mulch around plants to conserve soil moisture , reduce weed growth , and regulate soil temperature . You should leave a few inches of separation between the mulch and the base of the plant ( mulch should not touch the plants ).
• Time of Day : Water early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize water loss due to evaporation . Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day .
• Soil Assessment : Regularly check the moisture level of the soil by inserting your finger or a moisture meter into the soil . Adjust watering frequency based on soil moisture rather than a fixed schedule . We suggest placing a rain gauge in an area with little tree canopy cover to ensure an accurate reading for rainfall . Maintain consistent soil moisture by watering deeply and allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out slightly between watering .
Low Moisture Plants :
• Definition : These plants can tolerate drier conditions and require less frequent watering .
• Irrigation Guidelines : Water these plants 1 or 2 times a week if rainfall is less than 1.25 - 1.5 inches .
Moderate Moisture Plants :
• Definition : These plants thrive in soil with moderate moisture levels and require a slightly higher water intake than low moisture plants .
• Irrigation Guidelines : Water moderate moisture plants 2 or 3 times a week if rainfall is less than 1.25 - 1.5 inches .
High Moisture Plants :
• Definition : These plants prefer consistently moist soil found near a wet area such as a pond edge , rain garden , or low-lying area with occasional pooling of water .
• Irrigation Guidelines : Water high moisture plants 3 times a week if rainfall is less than 1.25 - 1.5 inches , check soil to ensure plant roots do not become waterlogged .
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