To water perennials effectively, the general guidelines are:
- Newly planted perennials:
Water daily or every other day during the first week. In weeks 2-3, water 2-3 times per week depending on weather conditions. After the first month, continue watering 2-3 times weekly, increasing frequency during hot or dry periods
. Another approach is to water deeply when planting, then again after 2-3 days, followed by watering every 7-10 days until plants are established (usually after one growing season)
- Established perennials:
Typically need about 1 inch of water per week, which can come from rain or irrigation. Deep, infrequent watering is preferred over frequent shallow watering to encourage deep root growth and drought tolerance
. Watering once a week thoroughly is usually sufficient, but in very hot, dry, or windy conditions, watering every other day may be needed
- Watering techniques and timing:
Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal disease risk. Apply water at the base of the plants, avoiding wetting foliage. Using drip irrigation or soaker hoses is effective for deep watering
- Signs to adjust watering:
Yellowing lower leaves may indicate overwatering, while dry, curled leaf edges suggest underwatering
In summary, water new perennials frequently at first (daily to every other day initially), then reduce to 2-3 times per week as they establish. For established perennials, aim for about an inch of water weekly through deep watering, adjusting frequency based on weather and soil moisture
