End of Season – Planting & Watering Considerations

I discussed with a customer this week regarding how much water is required for fall planting. There are several considerations when answering that question.

1. Has the planting site been irrigated leading up to the fall planting? New construction sites will be very dry by end of summer because there usually isn’t any irrigation on the site. This warrants heavy watering at planting to wet up the surrounding soil followed by heavy watering weekly until the ground freezes.
2. What type of soil is the planting in? Poor rocky or sandy soil on an unirrigated site will increase the water needs because not only is the soil dry but it is well drained making it harder yet to wet up at planting.
3. Container grown plants can “wick” dry once planted. The planting media can draw moisture from the surrounding soil, (it is lighter and not compacted) so the application of an organic mulch over the container plug helps prevent wicking. Be sure to leave space between the trunk of the tree and the mulch, (3-6” of space) to avoid creating a rodent haven through the winter up against the tree trunk. The mulch will be helpful in moderating the soil temperature swings, allowing for an extended rooting period and reduced root damage from the cold of winter.
4. In an existing landscape with soil that has been watered through the season a good watering at planting and again the first week may be sufficient followed by a heavy watering just before the ground freezes.
5. Antitranspirants are helpful in slowing moisture loss from coniferous plants through the winter.
6. Don’t forget if we have a prolonged fall the plants may need watering during extended periods of no moisture.

These recommendations do not review every circumstance you may encounter but can help inform you and your customer how to prepare your fall planting for winter! Every season has its variations from the norm so there is not a one size fits all recommendation.

 

Brad Brown