How to Water a Hedge: A Guide to First-Year Care
Proper watering is the foundation of a healthy, thriving hedge. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to water your newly planted hedge during its critical first year of establishment.
Understanding Hedge Establishment
Container vs. Field Grown Plants
Container grown plants can be planted all year round and establish quicker than field grown plants. Their root systems are complete and ready to grow as soon as they're in the ground.
Seasonal Planting Considerations
If you plant between November and the end of February, watering will most probably not be an issue – unless of course global warming changes everything! However, if you plant during the rest of the year, you should plant container grown plants and follow the basic rules of watering for the first growing season.
The Golden Rules of Hedge Watering
Rule 1: Use Leaky Hose
Use Leaky Hose to water your new hedging plants. Hand watering with a hose or watering can is ineffective and wastes both water and your valuable time. This method typically only wets the top 2 inches of soil, while the deeper root system remains dry. The consequence? A stressed hedge that shows slow growth, wilting, or even complete failure during dry periods.
Why Hand Watering Fails:
- Surface water quickly evaporates in warm weather
- Water runs off rather than penetrating deeply
- Root systems remain dry where it matters most
- Creates inconsistent watering patterns
Rule 2: Water Deeply to Reach All Roots
DO water adequately to ensure that the water soaks right in to the bottom of the roots. This is best done by using leaky hose (also known as soaka-hose or porous pipe). Leaky Hose is cheap, easy to use, water efficient and very effective.
How to Implement Deep Watering
- Install leaky hose (also called soaka-hose or porous pipe) along the base of your hedge. This specialised hose slowly releases water directly into the soil
- Immediately after planting, run the leaky hose for 3-4 hours
- This initial deep watering helps settle soil and eliminate air pockets
- Ensures water reaches the bottom of the root ball
Rule 3: Water Consistently on a Schedule
Consistent watering on a regular schedule is far more beneficial than reactive watering when plants show distress.
Recommended Watering Schedule:
- Water your hedging plants at least once weekly throughout the growing season
- Run leaky hose for 3-4 hours during each session
- Increase to twice or three times weekly during heat waves or drought
- Don't wait until plants show signs of wilting—by then, damage has begun
- Set calendar reminders to maintain your schedule
Top Tip: If you plan to be away during the growing season, arrange for someone to maintain your watering schedule. Just as you wouldn't leave pets unfed, your hedge requires consistent care to thrive.
Additional Watering Tips for Hedge Success
Morning Watering Benefits
Watering in the early morning allows moisture to penetrate before the day's heat causes evaporation. It also ensures foliage can dry during the day, reducing fungal disease risk.
Mulching for Water Retention
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around your hedge, keeping it slightly away from the stems. This helps:
- Retain soil moisture
- Regulate soil temperature
- Reduce weed competition
- Improve soil quality as it breaks down
Signs of Watering Problems
Underwatering Symptoms
- Wilting or drooping foliage
- Leaf drop
- Yellowing or browning leaf edges
- Slow or stunted growth
Overwatering Symptoms
- Yellowing leaves throughout the plant
- Soft, spongy stems near the base
- Root root (revealed by gently examining roots)
- Fungal growth or mould on soil surface
Long-Term Watering Strategy
After the first full growing season, most established hedges become more drought tolerant. However, during extended dry periods, occasional deep watering will help maintain health and vigour.
By following these golden rules during the critical first year, you're setting your hedge up for decades of beauty and function in your landscape. The time and attention you invest now will pay dividends in a lush, vibrant hedge that enhances your property for years to come.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Hedge?
Browse our extensive selection of hedge plants, cultivated for successful establishment in your garden. We also offer quality leaky hose systems and all the supplies you need to ensure your new hedge thrives from day one.