When planting new plants, one of the most important things to do is making sure the plants get enough water. Young plants are not able to access water in the soil as easily until their roots begin to grow. Because of that, new plants require more water than plants already established.
Watering newly planted perennials correctly is crucial for their health and establishment in the garden As a gardener, I know determining the right watering schedule can be tricky. Perennials have specific needs that change as they become established This article will explain when and how much to water perennials at each stage, along with signs of over and underwatering. Follow these best practices to help your new perennials thrive.
Why Watering New Perennials Matters
When perennials are first planted, their root systems are small and shallow. They are not yet established enough to reach water deep in the soil. Without adequate moisture at the surface, newly planted perennials will wilt and struggle to grow Proper watering encourages the plant to develop deep, vigorous roots It also allows the plant to establish itself quickly so it is ready to handle normal rainfall the following year. Well-watered perennials will be stronger, healthier, and live longer.
How Often to Water Newly Planted Perennials
How often you need to water newly planted perennials depends on:
- Type of soil – Sandy soils require more frequent watering than clay soils
- Weather and season – Hot and dry periods demand more watering
- Type of plant – Some perennials need more water than others
Follow these general guidelines when watering new perennials:
First Month
- Water every other day
- Water daily in hot/dry weather
Second Month
- Water 2-3 times per week
- More often in summer
Third Month
- Water 1-2 times per week
- Less in cooler weather
Watering Tips for New Perennials
Follow these tips to water new perennials correctly:
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Water at the base: Water directly at the plant’s base to ensure water reaches the roots.
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Water slowly: Use a slow stream or trickle. Avoid blasting water quickly onto plants.
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Soak the soil: Water until the soil is soaked 6-12 inches deep.
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Let it dry: Allow the soil to partially dry between waterings to encourage deep roots.
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Observe plants: If plants wilt, increase watering frequency.
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Consider rain: Reduce watering after rainfall.
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Check soil: Stick your finger in the soil to check moisture before watering.
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Water early: Water early in the day to reduce disease risk.
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Consider mulch: Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
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Group plants: Group plants with similar needs for easier watering.
When to Water New Perennials
In addition to watering frequency, timing is also important:
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Water in the early morning before the day heats up. This reduces water loss from evaporation.
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Avoid watering in the evening. Wet foliage overnight encourages disease.
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Water when the top few inches of soil become dry. Don’t wait until plants show signs of drought stress.
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Observe plants and increase watering if you see any wilting or drooping leaves.
First Year vs Established Perennials
The guidelines here are for newly planted perennials in their first year. Once established, perennials won’t need as much watering. By their second year, water perennials:
- Only 1 inch per week if there is no rainfall
- Deeply to encourage deep roots
- During extended dry/hot periods
Properly watered perennials develop healthy root systems their first year. This prepares them to tap into water stored deeper in the soil their second year and beyond. Ongoing deep watering keeps their root systems vigorous.
Watering Perennials in Pots
Potted perennials need more frequent watering than in-ground plantings. Check soil moisture daily and water containers whenever the top inch becomes dry. Water until it drains from the bottom of the pot. Plants in small pots may need daily watering.
Signs of Underwatering New Perennials
Watch for these signs your new perennials need more frequent watering:
- Wilting or drooping leaves and flowers
- Leaves appear curled or shriveled
- Plant looks dried out
- Soil is dry 1-2 inches deep
- Lack of new growth
Providing Adequate Water
Proper watering provides perennials the moisture they need those first crucial months. Taking time to monitor soil moisture and plant health results in healthy, thriving perennials. Once their root systems establish, perennials are better able to withstand drier conditions. Put in the effort early on to water new perennials well and you’ll reap the benefits for years to come.
Following these best practices for watering will help ensure your newly planted perennials get off to a strong, healthy start. Adjust frequency and amount based on site conditions and plant needs. Proper watering techniques make all the difference in successfully establishing perennials in your garden.
How Much Water Do New Plants Require?
This will depend on the type of soil you have and the speed you apply the water. A soaker hose will require much less water than just dumping water out of a bucket or watering can. We recommend watering heavily right after getting the plant in the ground, waiting 30 minutes for the water to soak into the ground, then watering heavily again. The deeper the water gets into the ground the better.
How To Tell If The Plant Needs Water?
The best way to tell if the plant needs water is by studying the leaves. If the leaves are drying up, curling, wilting or turning brown, that is a good sign the plant is not getting enough water. This rule applies to newly planted plants as well as plants that are already established.
5 Watering Mistakes You’re Probably Making
FAQ
How often should I water newly transplanted perennials?
1st Week – Water every day unless there is rainfall that day. 2nd Week – Water every other day, unless there is rainfall that day or the day before. 3rd Week & Beyond – Water 2 to 3 times a week.
Should perennials be watered daily?
Established perennial beds (beds that have existed for more than 2 years) should get an average of 1” of water a week. Avoid watering established plants every day. A quick drink every day just encourages spindly roots. Instead, deep and less frequent watering is best to promote long roots.Jul 22, 2023
Can perennials be overwatered?
Leaves turning brown and mushy, flower buds not opening, and dying back of the top growth are all signs of too much water around the roots.Jan 12, 2022