How to water and feed new trees and hedges
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Suggested lead photograph: how to water and feed new trees and hedges
New trees and hedges need regular, deep watering through their first two growing seasons, especially from spring to early autumn. Water less often but more thoroughly, keep a mulch over the roots, and in most cases you will not need to feed in the first year.
Why watering matters so much
When a tree or hedge is planted, its roots have not yet spread into the surrounding soil, and until they do, the plant relies on the water you give it. Drying out in the first summer accounts for most losses in new planting, which means good watering is the single most valuable thing you can do for your plants.
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Suggested photograph: how much and how often
How much and how often
The key is to soak rather than sprinkle. A long, slow soak that reaches the whole root ball is far better than a little every day, because it draws roots down and out into the soil. Let a hose trickle at the base, or use a watering bag or irrigation pipe. In dry weather from spring to early autumn, aim to water once or twice a week, and more often in hot spells and for large specimens.
Rather than relying on a fixed routine, check the soil. Push a finger or trowel into the soil beside the root ball, and if it is dry a few centimetres down, it is time to water. Keep an eye on spring as well as summer, because dry springs catch many people out, just as plants are coming into leaf.
Hedges
For a new hedge, a seep hose laid along the base on a timer is the easiest way to water evenly along its whole length. As with trees, run it for a long soak rather than little and often.
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Suggested photograph: signs to look out for
Signs to look out for
Your plants will tell you how the watering is going. Wilting or curling leaves, crisp brown leaf edges and early leaf drop are signs that a plant needs more water. Yellowing leaves and soil that stays soggy for days suggest the opposite, in which case ease off and check the drainage.
Mulch
A 5 to 7 cm layer of peat-free mulch, such as composted bark or well-rotted organic matter, spread over the root area keeps moisture in, suppresses weeds and feeds the soil as it breaks down. Keep it a few centimetres clear of the stems.
Feeding
Trees and hedges planted in the ground rarely need feeding in their first year, because good soil preparation and an annual mulch are usually enough. From the second spring, a light, slow-release, peat-free feed can help on poorer soils. Hold back on high-nitrogen feeds in late summer, since they encourage soft growth that can be damaged by frost. Plants in containers are the exception, and do need regular feeding through the growing season.
Need a hand?
If something does not look right, send us a photo and we will help you work out what is going on. See also our guide to planting a multi-stem tree and how to plant a hedge.