All plants need water and newly planted items need quite a lot of it.  By applying the following techniques, you will be giving your plants the good root start they need to stay healthy and look their best.

Water plants in the morning. 

Early morning watering is ideal because it's generally cooler and evaporation is slower than in the afternoon.  Try not to water in the evening, as the water will remain on the leaves throughout the night and has the potential to cause fungal disease.

Water less frequently but more deeply.

Deep watering stimulates deep root growth where soil stays moist longer.      

Water slowly so that the water is not lost to run off.

Water the soil, not the leaves.

Use a drip irrigation system, soaker hose, Tree Gator Bag, or watering wand to direct water to the root zone and not the leaves where it will be lost to evaporation.  Watering the leaves of a tree or bush (while the sun is shining) will burn the leaves.  Having your watering system on a timer will allow you to handle the task of watering without being present.

  Mulch.

    Applying 2" of mulch to beds, around the bases of trees and even in containers is a great way to maintain moisture in the soil       and keep plant roots cool.  Mulch also suppresses weeds and continues to enrich the soil as it decomposes.  Keeping your             garden weed free will eliminate some of the competition for precious water.