Proper Watering Techniques for your Trees, Shrubs & Hanging Baskets

As the weather heats up, so does the need to water properly. Below is a simple guide to effective watering techniques for trees, shrubs, and hanging baskets because watering more often doesn’t always mean watering better.

Every summer, we see customers come in with crunchy leaves on their trees and shrubs, telling us they were watering every day. That’s usually where the problem begins.

Trees & Shrubs

Trees and shrubs do not benefit from small amounts of water every day. Established trees and shrubs need a deep, thorough soaking every five to seven days during hot weather. Newly planted trees and shrubs, however, will require watering every two to three days while they establish strong root systems.

Standing over a plant with a hose-end sprayer and watering until the soil pools and runs off is ineffective for two reasons. First, it’s nearly impossible to stand there long enough to water deeply. Second, most of the water runs off the surface instead of soaking down to the root zone, where it’s needed most.

A slow, gentle sprinkler or a soaker hose run for approximately 20 minutes is the best method. This mimics natural rainfall and allows water to penetrate deeply into the soil, encouraging healthy root growth.

Hanging Baskets

Extreme heat and wind are the biggest challenges for hanging baskets in summer. Consistent watering and fertilizing are essential to keeping them looking full and vibrant.

Hanging baskets in full sun typically need watering every day and, during heat waves, sometimes twice a day. Aim to water early in the morning, then check again later in the day. Baskets in part shade or full shade may need watering daily or every second day, depending on conditions.

The easiest way to check if a hanging basket needs water is to lift it slightly from the bottom. If it feels heavy, it’s fine. If it feels light, it’s time to water.

As with trees and shrubs, hanging baskets need a long, thorough soaking, not just a cup of water. Always water until you see water running freely from the bottom of the container. By early summer, most nutrients originally added to the soil are depleted, so fertilize at least once a week using a fertilizer that includes micronutrients. These plants work hard to bloom all season long and need consistent feeding to keep performing.

Remember, frequent shallow watering encourages shallow roots in all plants, including your lawn, making them more vulnerable to heat and drought.

~ Kelly