WATERING

WATERING TIPS

Watering correctly is one of the most important factors in plant survival — especially during the first 1–3 years. Continue reading for practical watering advice for the Prairie–Foothills conditions of Southern Alberta. As always, we are here to help with any questions, so feel free to contact us for practical information about watering your trees and shrubs. Waterbags are available for purchase in our Garden Centre retail area!

đź’§ Simple Watering Guide for Trees & Shrubs

🌳 General Watering Principles

1. Deep, Infrequent Watering
Plants develop deeper, stronger roots when water penetrates 20–40 cm into the soil. Frequent shallow watering encourages weak, surface‑level roots.

2. Water Slowly
Fast watering runs off  hard, compacted soils. Slow soaking (a trickling hose or waterbag) is far more effective.

3. Mulch Makes a Huge Difference
A 5–10 cm layer of natural wood mulch dramatically improves moisture retention and reduces heat stress. Ensure that the root flare remains exposed (don’t mulch right up to the trunk).

4. Adjust for Weather
– Hot, windy weeks = more water
– Cool, cloudy periods = less
– After heavy rain or hail, skip watering

5. Water the Root Zone, Not the Trunk
Roots extend outward — often far beyond the canopy. 

4. Consider Rainwater Collection
– Save money on your water bill
– Take advantage of rainbarrel rebates (City of Calgary, City of Edmonton/EPCOR)
– An extra water source for your plants in case of water restrictions

Rainbarrel Information
Watering Video#1 with Phil - demostrating use of a water bag (filmed during water restrictions using cooled cooking water)
Watering Video #2 with Phil - more watering advice
Watering Video #3 with Tor -
checking moisture before watering

🌳 Watering Newly Planted Trees 

New trees have limited root systems and dry out quickly. They need consistent moisture, especially in the first two growing seasons, spring through to fall.*  Here is a watering schedule for the first 3 seasons. See our Planting Page for more details.

At Planting :
– Water deeply immediately after planting
– Ensure soil settles around roots (no air pockets)

First Year:
– Water once per week (twice during heat waves)
– Each watering should moisten soil deeply

Second Year:
– Water every 10–14 days
– Increase frequency during hot, windy periods

Third Year
– Water every 2 – 3 weeks during dry spells
– Most trees transition to “established” status

* Winter watering is helpful to coniferous trees and shrubs during chinooks and dry conditions with little precipitation on the ground. 

✔️ Quick Waterbags Do’s and Don’ts

DO:
– Fill the bag fully
– Let it drain completely
– Remove it in winter
– Check soil moisture regularly
– Use mulch to improve water retention

DON’T:
– Use the bag as the ONLY source of water  
– Keep the bag on after the tree is established
– Leave the bag on during freezing weather