How Often Should I Water Newly Planted Arborvitae?

Watering Needs

• Newly planted arborvitaes require regular irrigation for up to a year after planting. Water deeply once a week and more frequently if planted in sandy soil. Use less water in clay soils. In areas where the ground freezes, water thoroughly during November. Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch like wood or bark chips, shredded bark or straw around plants to conserve moisture and keep weeds out. Apply a 12-6-4 or 20-10-5 fertilizer during early spring and late fall, using 1/3 lb. per foot height of tree. Use per foot width of tree if it is greater than height.

Planting Time

• The best time to plant evergreens like arborvitaes is during early fall as the plants require minimal care to get established at this time. Though arborvitaes may also be planted during spring and summer, there is a greater chance of the plants succumbing to possible stress at these times than in early fall.

Advantages of Fall Planting

• Arborvitaes that are planted during early fall are already in their dormant stage with reduced requirement for water and nutrients. This natural growth state corresponds with the reduced ability of newly transplanted roots to absorb water and transport through the tree. Planting in early fall gives the plants enough time to get established before the active growth season starts in spring and summer.

Disadvantages of Spring and Summer Planting

• When planted during spring and summer, arborvitaes need ample watering to get established. If not provided enough water, the plants tend to suffer from drying and withering as the foliage loses more water than the newly planted roots are able to supply. If damage gets worse, plants can die entirely instead of recovering.