New plantings must not be allowed to dry out before they are fully established. However, once well established, most do just fine with natural rainfall. In fact, a plant that is well suited to its growing conditions should not need to be watered unless there is an extended drought.

Plants that do need to be watered should be watered deeply, meaning that the soil should be saturated so that it will penetrate deep into where the roots are growing. Deeper watering helps develop deeper roots, making for stronger plants.

Whenever watering, try to avoid wetting the foliage so as not to encourage fungal diseases. Watering is probably the most important element in caring for new trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals. Since a newly transplanted tree or shrub has not extended its roots into the existing soil, adequate moisture needs to reach the root ball.

Soil type and the amount of rainfall govern the amount of watering necessary. On most well drained soil, one inch of water per week is sufficient to maintain good growth. In sandy soils, as much as two inches of water per week is needed.

For more information about ecological gardening log onto the Native Landscapes Garden Center website at www.NativeLandscaping.net.

And tune in to hear "The Living Landscape" with Pete Muroski throughout the day on LIME Radio, Sirius Satellite channel 114. Thanks for visiting "The Living Landscape".