Watering is one of the most important things you can do to help your new landscape thrive. Whether you’ve just installed trees, shrubs, perennials, groundcover, or even a new lawn, proper watering ensures healthy roots, strong growth, and lasting beauty. This guide is written with new homeowners and novice gardeners in mind — clear, practical, and tailored to the Midwest climate.
Perennials & Groundcovers
When to water:
Daily for the first 1–2 weeks after planting
Every 2–3 days for the next 3–6 weeks, depending on weather
Eventually taper to once a week
How much water:
Aim to soak the soil 4–6 inches deep
Use a gentle hose nozzle or soaker hose to avoid damaging the young plants
Pro Tip:
If the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry, it’s time to water.
Trees
When to water:
Water 2–3 times per week for the first 3–4 weeks
Afterward, water weekly for the rest of the growing season, especially during hot or dry spells
How much water:
A newly planted tree needs about 10–15 gallons per watering session
Use a slow trickle from a hose for 30–45 minutes, or use a tree watering bag
Pro Tip:
Water at the base of the tree, not on the leaves. A mulch ring helps retain moisture and protect the roots.
Shrubs
When to water:
Every 2–3 days for the first 2 weeks
Then weekly for the rest of the season
How much water:
Water long enough to moisten the soil 6–8 inches deep
Adjust frequency if the soil is drying too quickly or staying soggy
Pro Tip:
Group watering similar to perennials if shrubs are part of a bed or mixed border.
Seeded Lawn
When to water:
Water 2–4 times per day during the first 2–3 weeks, or until seed germinates and young grass is 1–2 inches tall
After germination, water once daily for another 2–3 weeks to encourage root development
Transition to deep, less frequent watering once the lawn is established (after 5–6 weeks)
How much water:
The goal is to keep the top ½ inch of soil constantly moist during germination — not soggy, but never dry
After grass is up and growing, increase to ½–¾ inch of water per session, 2–3 times per week
Pro Tip:
Use fine-spray nozzles or oscillating sprinklers to prevent seed washout. Avoid pooling or runoff.
Sodded Lawn
When to water:
Water immediately upon installation — don’t wait, even if the forecast calls for rain
For the first 10–14 days, water deeply twice per day (early morning and late afternoon)
After root establishment begins, reduce to once daily for another 1–2 weeks
Transition to watering 2–3 times per week, applying deeper soakings
How much water:
Water until both the sod and 3–4 inches of underlying soil are thoroughly saturated
Expect to use 1–1.5 inches of water per day in the first two weeks — more during hot, windy, or sunny weather
Pro Tip:
Lift a corner of the sod to check for moisture and root development. If the sod lifts easily and soil is dry underneath, increase watering. Avoid letting the sod dry out, especially at edges and corners.
Final Tips for Success
Water early in the day to reduce evaporation and discourage disease.
Use mulch around plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Watch the weather: rainfall may reduce your watering needs, but hot, dry, or windy conditions may require more.
When in doubt, check the soil! If it feels dry a few inches down, it’s time to water.
Contact Us
Landmark Landscapes of Sheboygan Falls, WI is a full-service landscape company. Based out of Sheboygan County, with a Green Lake, Wisconsin satellite office. We are centrally located and uniquely positioned to service the areas of Sheboygan, Elkhart Lake, Fond Du Lac County, Green Lake County, Ozaukee County, Manitowoc County, and Door County. We can manage your property with our Total Property Care system, and design and build projects large and small. Contact us today at 920-467-6442 to learn how we can care for you.
