Watering New Shrubs

WATERING is a topic of discussion that can baffle any newfangled homeowner eager to take a stab at his green thumb. A newly planted shrub needs supplemental watering until it is established in its new habitat this can take 2 or 3 summers. 

  Here are 6 sure ways to help you water more efficiently:

1. Before planting a new shrub or tree submerge the entire root ball in a bucket of water while digging the hole. If you don't have a bucket large enough turn the hose on a trickle, into the pot until the hole is dug. Once planted leave hose on a trickle or a little more and water surrounding soil to help remove air pockets and let soil settle.

2. Morning is a good time to water, however anytime it works for you is ok. Watering in the evening and getting leaves wet can cause fungus. NEVER WATER THE LEAVES - KEEP HOSE IN THE SOIL. Watering in the heat of the afternoon will not affect the plant.  Any water is better than none to keep the plant from stressing in the hot summer sun.

3. A steady stream or trickle of water should be applied for 15 to 20 minutes twice a week for a month after they are planted. Weather may dictate more or less watering. During summer months keep an eye on spring plantings plants planted in the spring they may need supplemental waterings. A deep soaking is better than water that doesn't reach the entire root ball. WATER DEEPLY AND SLOWLY.

4. Don't allow Mother Nature to do your watering for you. Most summer rain does not soak the soil down to the root ball. Imagine yourself in a rain storm trying to catch enough water in your mouth for a drink - it doesn't work.

5. Continue watering into the End of October, give those newly planted broadleaf evergreens a good last watering going into December and winter protect or use an anti- desiccant spray such as wilt stop or wilt proof.

6. Mulch your newly planted shrub to help keep moisture in and weeds away.Water deeply and slowly, don't water leaves - water soil where root ball is, twice a week at a slow trickle for 15 to 20 minutes for 1st month. After a month, do it weekly.  Don't count on Mother Nature. 

Remember - different plants have different needs.  Be sure to pick the right plant for the right spot.   

Landscape Design Service Now Offered At Ashcombe

Ashcombe Farm and Greenhouses is now offering a landscape design service. This is a great way for do it yourselfers to get some help planning their landscape.Landscape design fees start at $60.  Whether you have awhole yard or a small area that needs some attentionwe will provide you with a professional design.We will not be coming to homes to take measurements

but ask the homeowne to provide as much information

on the design as possible.

 

Hereisasampledesign:

Stop by our Tree and Shrub department to learn more.

David Austin Roses are Back!

This week's spotlight is on David Austin Roses.  After a brief absence from Ashcombe's inventory, the ever popular, gorgeous David Austin roses are back!

  

This year, we will be carrying 9 varieties:

'CharlesDarwin'

'ClaireAustin' 

'CrownPrincessMargareta' 

'JamesGalway' 

'JubileeCelebration' 

'MunsteadWood' 

'PrincessAlexandriaofKent' 

'QueenofSweden' 

'TheMayflower'

Mass then, plant in mixed borders, or use them in areas where their wonderful fragrance can be appreciated.

Azaleas and Rhododendrons

Azaleas and Rhododendrons

Azaleas and Rhododendrons are the premier harbinger of spring.  The arrival of the 'PJM' rhododendrons' bloom (pictured at left) signal the kick off of cookouts, camping trips, baseball games and porch sitting.

Along with the appeal and beauty of azaleas comes the agitation of finding the correct spot to place the plant.  Here are some key points to keep in mind when choosing the area to plant your newly acquired beauty.

DRAINAGE, DRAINAGE AND DRAINAGE 

Rhododendrons and azaleas prefer an area that is well drained.  Keep them out of clay soil and away from drain spots.  Planting rhododendrons in a raised bed with amended soil would solve the drainage issues.  If you are unsure of the types of soil you have in your garden bed, plant the rootball high and cover with soil and mulch.  The soil your plant is placed in should also be acid in the 6pH to 6.5 pH range.  Rhododendrons prefer an area with dappled sun or morning sun and afternoon shade.  When planting container plants, be sure to rip tangled, matted roots apart well to allow for water uptake.

Rhododendrons and azaleas, being the matriarch of spring, are the perfect gift for the matriarch of your family on Mother's Day!

Check out Ashcombe's gorgeous selection of rhododendrons and azaleas now before they are sold out.