In dry springs, I would strongly advise to check newly planted trees and shrubs for water stress now that they have come out of dormancy. Conditions can affect newly planted laurels (see picture above – note: with water stress it is the older leaves that yellow first).
It is necessary to carry out a regular watering regime for the first two years. At this time of year I would recommend watering as follows:-
Our big shrubs – 4 litres (1 gallon or ½ a large watering can) every 2 to 3 days.
Our trees and instant laurel hedging – 9 litres (2 gallons or 1 large watering can) every 2 to 3 days.
Our very big trees – 18 litres (4 gallons or 2 large watering cans) every 2 to 3 days.
In particularly hot, dry, sunny and/or windy weather you may need to increase the frequency further, or reduce it in a period of wet weather.
Plants usually give you fair warning that they are stressed before they die by turning older leaves yellow and then dropping them, and in severe drought the soft new growth wilts and shrivels!
If you have a soaker hose fitted on an outside timer make sure it is switched on for at least 20 minutes a day (sandier soils may require more).
I have also noticed a lot of plants, in particular laurels, looking hungry this spring (in this case the entire plant will be yellowing); I would advise an immediate feed with a high nitrogen fertiliser with a follow up treatment at the end of June or early July.
I hope this helps!
Adam Smith, General Manager
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