4. Water and Mulch
A recent transplant does not require much water. In fact, it is my
opinion that horticultural literature places too much emphasis on water
at this stage. A plant without a multitude of root hairs simply does not
absorb moisture. A soil kept wet invites stagnation, which leads to root
rot. Forget that pretty ring of soil making a catch-basin around the
trunks of newly-set trees and shrubs. Unless you live where rainfall is
nor nally scant, that ring will cause more failures than successes.
The soil needs to be kept just moist ( not wet) to encourage the
development of root hairs. Water once, then mulch. The mulch is
especially important during the first growing season, whether
transplanting is done in autumn or spring. The mulch conserves soil
moisture, but it also keeps the soil cool under the hot summer sun.
Moisture and coolness are equally important in promoting vigorous root
growth.
Wherever rainfall is scant"( naturally or unusually), a thorough
soaking of the soil every two or three weeks will keep the plants
growing as if there were no drought.
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