Watering RIGHT after planting: Necessary or Myth?

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Connie_G Austin, TX(Zone 8b) Feb 11, 2008

Today I planted two - 5 foot black juniper trees that (I duck my head as I reveal this) I've had in plastic tubs for about a year. I bought them at 1/2 price and wanted to wait to plant after my pool was finished.

I dug correct holes, planted, tamped soil......all as my dear departed Dad used to tell me. Now I'm in the house, it's dark, and I hear this voice saying, "Go outside and water them! You must always water right after planting!" I had just watered them this afternoon when they were in the tubs, so MUST I water now that they are planted?

I think he said the water reveals any air pockets, and you then can fill in with more soil, etc.

Must I go outside and water NOW? :-?

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cyndiehook Central, ME(Zone 5a) Feb 11, 2008

I know you don't want to hear this, but YES. Dad was right. You should make sure they have plenty of water until they have time to re-establish themselves. The soil can wait, but they need a good watering ASAP.
I am going to San Antonio the end of this month for a family wedding. Can't wait.
I would give anything to be outside planting today. (It is snowing here)
Now....get out there and water like a good daughter. LOL
Can't wait to see Texas again. Cyndie

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Connie_G Austin, TX(Zone 8b) Feb 11, 2008

Cyndie,

Thanks for the confirmation of what I "thought" was right...I was just lazy, I guess! :-)

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hcmcdole Powder Springs, GA(Zone 7b) Feb 11, 2008

If the ground is sloppy wet you are probably okay in not watering but that is probably the exception to the rule. I like to add water to the hole before I even put the plant in it but whatever way you do it, it's best to water whenever you transplant. It's amazing how fast the moisture can wick away into the surrounding soil.

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Connie_G Austin, TX(Zone 8b) Feb 12, 2008

Good point! Thanks!

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ncdirtdigger Waxhaw, NC Feb 13, 2008

The water is not so much for the plant as it is to settle the soil around the roots to eliminate any air pockets. If the roots are exposed to air for a long time it can kill the plants. It is best to water the plants prior to planting (like you did) and try to keep the soil moist for the first few months.

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Connie_G Austin, TX(Zone 8b) Feb 13, 2008

Ah, Dirtdigger...so old Pops was right, huh? Thanks!!

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