LIVE OAK LANDSCAPE WATERING INSTRUCTIONS

A Quick Guide to Watering
Newly Installed Shrubs

Check soil moisture 4–5 inches deep; water only if soil is dry. Avoid watering if soil is still moist.
Best done in early morning or late evening to avoid evaporation. Never water the foliage in direct sunlight.
Spring/Fall: every 3–5 days; Summer: small plants every other day, large plants every 3–5 days; containers daily. Adjust for weather.
Cycle and Soak Method:
Water deeply at the root ball and surrounding soil, then allow water to soak in before repeating. This encourages deep root growth and prevents runoff.
Water slowly and deeply—use a gentle trickle, not a fast stream, to avoid runoff and allow water to penetrate to the roots.
If the soil is very dry or compacted, water in two cycles: Water for 15–20 minutes, pause for 30–60 minutes to let water absorb, then water again for another 15–20 minutes.
Use watering cans, wands, soaker hoses, or drip irrigation for targeted watering. Avoid overhead sprinklers on leaves.
Mulch to retain moisture, use water-retaining crystals in pots, collect rainwater, and prioritize young plants.
Adjust watering based on plant species, soil type, sun exposure, and weather conditions. Sensitive plants will wilt when they need water.

For turf (lawn) in New Jersey during the summer months, follow this watering schedule:

Water deeply 2–3 times per week. Avoid daily watering, as it encourages shallow roots and increases disease risk.
Aim for a total of 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week (including rainfall).
Each session should provide about ½ to ¾ inch of water.
Use a rain gauge or a small container (like a tuna can) to measure the amount applied per session.
Water early in the morning, ideally between 4:00 and 8:00 am. This reduces evaporation and disease risk.
For loamy soils: Water every 4 days.
For sandy soils: Water every 3 days, as these dry out faster.
Grass appears bluish-grey.
Blades curl or wilt.
Footprints remain visible after walking on the lawn.

Check the top inch of soil daily; water if it feels dry.
Water nearly every day; in extreme heat, you may need to water twice daily.
Wilting, pale or dull leaves, especially during the day.
Pale leaves, wilting, and soggy soil.
Always water early in the morning for best absorption and to prevent disease.
Drought-tolerant annuals (zinnia, marigold) may need water only once per week; others (impatiens, snapdragon) require regular watering.
Mulch can help retain moisture, even in containers.