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Plant Care Tips

WATERING YOUR NEW LANDSCAPE

LAWNS: Seeded and sodded lawns need large amounts of water which is usually the cost justification for an automatic irrigation system especially for seasonal owners. In general, however, for newly installed lawns, they must be watered at least three inches per week. It is good the keep the new seed damp so watering at several different times during the day is best. The seed should dry out slightly and then get wet again.

TREES: Since the root ball is larger and is generally buried with soil in the ground, they need less frequent watering than sod or shrubs. A good deep soaking once every 5-6 days is usually sufficient. A good deep soaking means 15-20 minutes per tree, at a steady stream.

SHRUBS: Shrubs need a deep soaking approximately every 3 days. Pay attention to the leaves; if they appear wilted and the ground is dry, please water the plant right away. Usually 5-7 minutes per shrub at a steady stream.

ANNUALS: These are plants that are not hardy in our planting zone to make it through the winter season and require special care depending on the weather and the soil temperature. Water thoroughly for the first 2 weeks after planting. Soil should feel moist to the touch at least 2" down. Let soil dry out between watering. Tip: watch for leaf color. Yellow and limp leaves are a sign of overwatering.

PERENNIALS & GROUNDCOVERS: These plants will require watering every two to three days because of their shallow root system. They will need less watering once they are established but in the beginning watering is extremely important.

PLANTS IN BERMS: These plants will require more frequent watering. Water will drain faster due to the slope and drip irrigation may be best so that the run off isn't so great.

DRIP HOSES & IRRIGATION SYSTEMS: Please do not depend solely on these methods of watering as in most cases they may not be totally sufficient. If using drip hoses, it is best to monitor everyday to view any inconsistencies in watering, which may need correction. Hand watering may be needed in order to help the plantings along, especially during the summer months and droughts.

HUMID CONDITIONS: These conditions sometime wreak havoc on newly planted materials. The humidity mixed with watering can become a breeding ground for fungus and types of disease. If the spring season is considerably wet and then hot, humid conditions occur going into the summer months, watch the plants carefully for signs of stress.

PRUNING YOUR NEW LANDSCAPE

DECIDUOUS SHRUBS & TREES: These plants will require trimming at different times during the year depending on their flowering times. It is important that the timing for trimming be after the flowering cycle of the plant so you don't lose the flower buds. For example:spring flowering plants should be pruned in mid summer and summer flowering plants should be trimmed in the fall. Deciduous trees can be trimmed in the winter months which is a good time to thin canopies since the branching structure can be seen well.

EVERGREENS: As a result of their habit, evergreens will require trimming once per year, generally in mid June/July. The trimming should be completed while the new lime green growth is apparent and still supple. Evergreens should be cut back in the fall as it will leave the open cuts susceptible to the winter cold.

ANNUALS / PERENNIALS: Many of these plants need to be cut back or deadheaded when they finish blooming. This will keep the plant from setting seed as well as maintain the health of the plant and in most cases encourages another flush of blooms. Perennials are usually cut back in the fall. Certain perennials, like Russian Sage or ornamental grasses, can add interest to the winter landscape and can be cut back in the spring. The perennials will start to show growth again as the spring season begins to warm up.

GENERAL PRUNING TIPS: Occasionally branches may be damaged or broken during transport and tying down of the plant materials on the trucks as well as and planting. Some damage may not be easily seen until later, especially when the tree is in leaf. In this case it will be necessary for you to prune the twig or branch. Use a sharp pair of pruners or a saw and cut as close to the trunk or main branch as possible. Try and make a nice clean cut, not a tear. Do not leave dead branches on the plant, as they are possible entry points for insects and diseases.