Planting & Care Instructions – Northeast PA

Watering Guidelines

Large Trees

Provide approximately 10 gallons of water once per week during the first growing season.
Deep, slow watering is best—allow water to soak into the root zone rather than running off.
Increase frequency during extended hot, dry periods.

Shrubs

Perennials

Water 3 times per week, providing 1–2 gallons per plant.
Avoid overhead watering to reduce risk of leaf diseases; water directly at the base.

Sod

Water daily for at least 4 weeks to keep sod consistently moist until roots establish.
Check by lifting a corner of sod—if soil underneath is dry, increase watering.
After establishment, reduce to deep, less frequent watering to encourage strong roots.

Newly Seeded Lawns

Water lightly once or twice per day to keep soil consistently moist but not flooded.
Once grass reaches 2–3 inches, reduce to deeper, less frequent watering to strengthen roots.

Fertilization

Fertilize trees, shrubs, and perennials once per year in early spring.
Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) unless otherwise specified.
Apply Holly-Tone to boxwoods, rhododendrons, hollies, and other acid-loving evergreens.
Avoid late-season fertilization, which may encourage tender growth vulnerable to frost.

Winter Care

Tree Trunks: Protect bark from buck rub with plastic tree guards, wire mesh, or burlap wraps.
Evergreens: Wrap boxwoods, rhododendrons, hollies, and other sensitive evergreens with burlap to prevent deer damage and winter burn.
Apply an anti-desiccant spray (such as Wilt-Pruf) in late fall to reduce winter moisture loss on broadleaf evergreens.

Deer Protection

Spray all newly installed plants with a repellent (e.g., Deer Stopper) twice per month, or as directed on the product label.
Reapply after heavy rain or snow.
Physical barriers (netting or fencing) are recommended in high-pressure deer areas.