FULL SHADE
WATERING GUIDE

Weekly Schedule for New Plantings

Your new plantings will need consistent watering, but LESS than full sun areas. 

Be careful not to overwater.

Week 1 - 2

Water EVERY OTHER Day

*Water one day, skip the next, then water again*

Week 3 - 4

Water EVERY 3 Days

*Water, then wait 3 full days before watering again*

Week 5+

Water EVERY 4 Days

*Water, then wait 4 full days before watering again*

Set your nozzle to: SHOWER MODE

The best time to water is early in the morning, between 6am – 10am.

In shade, overwatering is more common than underwatering.

Non Woody Plants

5 seconds per plant

Shrubs

15 seconds per plant

Clay Soil Reminder: Many SE Michigan yards have clay that retains moisture. Shade + Clay Soil = Extra Caution. Always check 2–3″ down before watering. If soil is still damp, skip.

after the initial month of watering, CONTINUE WATERING:

Spring

1 - 2 times minimum per week

if it doesn’t rain.
(Shade soil stays moist longer in spring, so don’t overdo it.)

Summer

When it's hot, WATER EVERY OTHER DAY

If temps exceed 85°F, increase to every 2–3 days, but never daily unless soil dries unusually fast.

Fall

1 time per week

Continue watering once per week until the ground freezes — usually late November to early December in Michigan.

Check all plants weekly

For newly planted plants, check every few days during the first two weeks. After that, inspect them every 7–10 days. If you notice anything unusual—such as spots, insect damage, or chewed leaves—let us know. We can either recommend what to purchase or stop by to treat the issue (additional charges may apply).

The FIRST YEAR of watering is ABSOLUTELY CRUCIAL to your plants SURVIVAL before becoming established.

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