How much water does a Yesterday Today and Tomorrow need?

Question

I planted several 3-4 foot plants in West Palm Beach about 6 weeks ago. The leaves droop and will perk up after extensive watering. Is this natural? How long will this be necessary?

Answer 1

Planting during the summer months can be more challenging. You will need to water your plant regularly until it is well established.

Keep a close eye on all newly planted perennials during the first growing season. Many new perennials die because they get too much or too little water. The soil around their roots should be moist, but not soaking wet, for the first two weeks. For the next two weeks or so, water when the soil 2 inches below the surface is dry to the touch. After that, check the garden soil once a week and water if the soil 3 or 4 inches deep is dry.

To establish durable, deep root systems water slowly and deeply rather than frequently and shallowly. A good rule of thumb is that many perennials grow well with 1 inch of water per week. The water can come from natural rainfall or from irrigation.