“This was our 3rd year using Stepping Stones aeration service. We plan to use them again next year as they are dependable and effective and we will likely request some groundskeeping services as well. Great crew, very polite” – Amen
One thing Stepping Stone is great at is new plant, tree, & grass installation, but that’s just half the battle. Taking care of your plants & grass going forward is what’s most important – and it’s going to come down to you to make it happen.
Properly watering plants, trees, & grass is the single most important thing you can do to keep your lawn looking healthy after installation. How you water in the first few weeks directly impacts the long-term health and growth of your lawn.
Discoloration? You’re Doing It Wrong
One great thing about plants and trees is that they will let you know what they need. Color changes (yellowing, browning, or dullness) are often the first sign of either under- or over-watering. To avoid any discoloration, follow these tips for watering new plants & trees.
Important Tips for Watering Plants & Trees
New plants need to establish strong roots to survive. Here’s what you can do to make it happen:
- Use a standard garden hose – no attachments like sprayers, wands, or jets.
- Hold your watering hose at least 6 inches away from the plants.
- Avoid watering leaves and blooms; only water at the base of the plants.
- Do not use lawn sprinklers for plants to avoid wasting water and improper care.
- Hand watering is still important, even with an irrigation system. Make sure to keep up with it, especially in the summer months.
Tips for Watering New Grass Seed or Sod
Following the necessary watering instructions is just as important for new grass as it is for plants and trees. New grass seed and sod also have shallow developing root systems that rely on consistent moisture to grow healthy. Like plants and trees, your grass will tell you if it’s being under- or over-watered if you notice any discoloration. Luckily, properly watering grass doesn’t have to be a manual process. For grass:
- Use an irrigation system or lawn sprinkler for even coverage
- Depending on new seed or sod, adjust watering as needed.
We get it- it can get confusing. Trees need more water than shrubs, and larger trees over 6ft tall will need even more to reach their root systems. To make it easier for you, here’s a breakdown of how much you should be watering shrubs, trees, large trees, new grass seed, new sod, and established sod, according to the season:
Adjust Watering According to the Weather
Please keep in mind that watering schedules aren’t one-size-fits-all. Temperature, rain, and wind will change your plant & grass needs, so be sure to stay flexible and adjust when necessary.
When in Doubt, Reach Out
You don’t have to guess whether you’re watering your plants, trees, or grass too much or too little. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out or call Stepping Stone for guidance. One quick call can make all the difference in keeping your landscape healthy.
