Arborvitae are popular evergreen trees and shrubs, chosen for their dense foliage that creates privacy screens and attractive landscape features. Proper watering is important for their growth, health, and vitality. Their compact structure can sometimes make it challenging to identify early signs of water stress, making a consistent watering regimen particularly important.
Essential Watering Principles
Effective watering for arborvitae centers on the principle of “deep and infrequent” applications. This approach encourages the development of deep, robust root systems, which are better equipped to handle periods of environmental stress. Shallow, frequent watering can lead to superficial root growth, making the plants more vulnerable.
To determine if watering is necessary, check the soil moisture by inserting a finger about 2-3 inches deep; if it feels dry, it is time to water. A moisture meter or even a wooden dowel can provide a more precise reading of moisture levels deeper in the soil. Good drainage is also important, as arborvitae prefer consistently moist soil but can suffer from waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The optimal time to water is in the early morning, allowing the plant to absorb moisture before the day’s heat causes excessive evaporation and ensuring foliage dries to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Newly Planted Arborvitae
The first year after planting is crucial for arborvitae to establish their root systems. Immediately after planting, a deep, thorough watering helps settle the soil around the roots and removes air pockets. For the initial 10 days, newly planted arborvitae may require daily watering, often with a slow trickle for 2-4 hours, or until the soil is moist about 5 inches deep. This frequency can then be reduced to every other day for the following weeks, and gradually to every 3-4 days. Over the first growing season, especially in temperatures above 70°F, deep soaking every other day is recommended. Consistency is key during this establishment phase, and monitoring the soil to ensure it remains moist but not waterlogged is essential for healthy root development.
Watering Established Arborvitae
Established arborvitae, in the ground for over a year, have different watering requirements. These plants need less frequent but still deep watering. While more resilient to drought, established arborvitae still benefit from supplemental water during prolonged dry spells. Weekly watering is recommended in well-drained soil, though in dry climates or during heatwaves, watering once every one to three weeks may be necessary. Assessing the need for water involves considering recent rainfall, the soil type, and the plant’s appearance. The goal is to provide enough water to saturate the root zone, encouraging roots to seek deeper moisture.
Seasonal Care and Common Issues
Seasonal Care
Watering needs fluctuate seasonally. During hot, dry summer periods, especially above 100°F, established plants may need deep watering up to three times per week. As temperatures cool in fall, reduce watering frequency, typically to once a week. Winter watering prevents dehydration, especially before the ground freezes. During warm spells above freezing, a deep drink protects roots from desiccation.
Common Issues
Arborvitae show similar signs for both underwatering and overwatering. Underwatering leads to browning tips, crispy foliage, dullness, wilting, or a sparse canopy. Conversely, overwatering causes yellowing leaves, drooping foliage, and root rot symptoms like soft, mushy bark or moss around the base. If overwatering is suspected, stop watering until the soil dries, improve drainage, or amend the soil. For underwatering, increase watering frequency.