When it comes to watering arborvitae, it’s important to provide them with the right amount of water to ensure their health and growth. The duration and frequency of watering will depend on several factors such as the weather, soil conditions, and the age of the arborvitae.
For the first 10 days after planting arborvitae, it’s crucial to water them consistently to help establish their root system. A good rule of thumb is to water them for 2-4 hours per day, but the actual duration will depend on how quickly the soil drains. It’s best to water them slowly, allowing a few drops per second, to ensure the water is absorbed deeply into the soil.
During this initial period, you want to make sure the soil around the arborvitae is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s essential to find the right balance. If you’re unsure about the drainage of your soil, you can check it by digging a small hole and observing how quickly the water is absorbed.
After the first 10 days, as the root system starts to establish itself, you can gradually reduce the frequency of watering. Every other day should be sufficient, but you still want to monitor the soil moisture to ensure it doesn’t become too dry. Arborvitae prefers slightly moist soil, so it’s important to find the right balance and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Keep in mind that arborvitae are relatively drought-tolerant once established, but they still require regular watering, especially during periods of hot and dry weather. It’s also important to consider the individual needs of your specific arborvitae variety, as some may require more water than others.
In my personal experience, I have found that arborvitae thrive when they receive consistent and adequate watering during their establishment phase. I have seen cases where neglecting to water them properly during this crucial period resulted in stunted growth and even plant loss. On the other hand, overwatering can lead to shallow root systems and make the plants more susceptible to disease.
To summarize, the general guideline for watering arborvitae is to provide a few drops per second for 2-4 hours per day for the first 10 days. After that, you can reduce the frequency to every other day while still monitoring the soil moisture. Finding the right balance between moisture and drainage is key to ensuring the health and vitality of your arborvitae.