Watering new trees and shrubs

At planting, soak the root ball and the backfill until the soil is uniformly moist. Then water slowly so it reaches the roots, not the lawn.

For the first growing season, check the soil 4–6 inches down twice a week in heat and wind. If it is dry, water. If it is still wet, wait. A soaker hose or slow trickle at the drip line beats a daily sprinkle.

A 2–3 inch ring of mulch holds moisture and keeps mowers away from bark. Leave a gap at the trunk.

In a prairie September, do not taper off too soon. Trees go into winter in better shape with a full moisture profile. We keep a simple watering chart at the garden centre—ask for a copy.