The Importance of Deep Watering When Planting New Plants
So, you’ve just purchased a beautiful new plant from your local nursery (hopefully from us at Lumpy’s!) and are ready to put it in the ground to brighten up your garden. But before you do, one of the most important steps in ensuring your plant thrives is understanding the proper way to water it. Specifically, we’re talking about deep watering—a critical technique that helps plants establish strong roots and sets them up for long-term success.
Here’s a quick guide to help you get it right.
Why Deep Watering Matters
When you purchase a plant, its roots are used to the small, confined space of the pot it was grown in. This means the roots will likely still be shaped like the pot when you take it home. To thrive in your garden, the plant needs time and the right conditions to spread its roots deep into the surrounding soil.
Deep watering encourages the roots to grow downward and outward, making them more resilient to drought, heat, and stress. Shallow watering only moistens the top layer of soil, which can cause the roots to stay near the surface, leading to weaker plants that are more vulnerable to drying out.
Step-by-Step Care Instructions for Deep Watering:
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Loosen the Root Ball Before planting, gently loosen the roots of the plant, especially if they are tightly wound around the pot's shape. This will encourage them to grow into the surrounding soil. You can even make small vertical cuts around the root ball to help them break free.
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Dig a Generous Hole Make sure to dig a hole twice as wide as the pot and just as deep. This gives the roots plenty of room to spread out. The depth should allow the plant to sit at the same level it was in the pot—not too deep or shallow.
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Backfill with Rich Soil After placing your plant in the hole, fill the space with nutrient-rich soil, ensuring the roots are completely covered. Press down gently to eliminate air pockets.
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Water Slowly and Deeply Once the plant is in the ground, water it thoroughly, allowing the water to penetrate deep into the soil. Use a slow trickle from a hose, or water in stages, so the soil has time to absorb the water. Aim for about 10-15 minutes of slow watering, depending on the size of the plant.
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Watering Frequency During the first few weeks after planting, deep water your plant every 2-3 days to encourage deep root growth. Gradually reduce the frequency over time as the roots establish and spread. The goal is for the roots to grow deeper into the soil, where they can access water even when the top layer is dry.
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Check Moisture Levels Stick your finger into the soil near the base of the plant to check moisture levels. If the soil is dry an inch or two down, it’s time to water again.
Benefits of Deep Watering:
- Stronger Roots: Deep watering encourages the plant's roots to grow deeper into the soil, making them more robust and better equipped to handle dry periods.
- Water Conservation: You’ll use less water over time by encouraging your plant to seek moisture deep in the soil.
- Healthier Plants: Deeply watered plants are better able to withstand stress from heat, drought, and wind.
- Improved Growth: Healthy, deep-rooted plants grow stronger, produce more flowers or fruit, and are less susceptible to pests and diseases.
Taking the time to water your new plants deeply will ensure they establish well and thrive in your garden for years to come. And remember, if you need any advice or quality products, Lumpy’s Nursery & Landscape Yard is always here to help! Happy planting! 🌿