I Just Planted Shefflera Arboricola And Croton Petra OUTSIDE In My Garden Area By The Pool. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WATER THESE PLANTS?

Question

I just planted shefflera arboricola and croton petra OUTSIDE in my garden by the pool. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WATER THESE PLANTS? In doing some internet searches, I’ve come across everything from “every two weeks” to “when the soil is dry” (yeah, that helps!) to “leave it alone!”. HELP! I am by no means a green thumb. these are fresh out of the pot and are each about a foot tall. This is the final step in rebuilding my home after Hurricane Ian pretty much destroyed it.

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Answer 1

Schefflera don't need as much water as croton, which prefers a moist soil. Depending on how much rain you get, you may not need supplemental water. They also do best in a dappled shade situation, not direct sun. They need more water than if they were inside, because wind and sun will dry them out. Till they get established, I would water deeply about every three days. Then, in a few weeks when you notice new growth, you can back off the water to about once a week. Water more when the temperature is highest and less in spring and fall. Soon, you will be able to tell by looking at the plant if it needs water (a little droopy or fading). When you aren't sure, just stick a finger in the soil a couple inches, if it is dry, water it.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/schefflera/outdoor-schefflera-care.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/croton/growing-croton-outdoors.htm