Knowledgebase
new shrub watering #910832
Asked July 22, 2025, 9:36 AM EDT
Macomb County Michigan
Expert Response
A general guide to watering is the following:
- 1-2 weeks after planting, water daily.
- 3-12 weeks after planting, water every 2 to 3 days.
- After 12 weeks, water weekly until roots are established.
Watering newly planted trees and shrubs | UMN Extension
Be careful not to overwater. Water should soak in quickly; your plants should never sit in a puddle of water for an extended period of time. This can lead to root damage. What you are aiming for is to get the roots established in the ground and this takes time. Mulching around your planting will help the soil retain moisture. When mulching the mulch should not come in contact with the base of the shrub.
I have included two articles for further reading:
The do’s and don’ts of irrigating landscape plants - MSU Extension
Watering Trees and Shrubs | University of Maryland Extension