Jennifer Heisterkamp
Water Requirements For Newly Planted Seedlings

Aronia seedlings are some of the hardiest seedlings I have run across in my many years as a forester in SD and other states, but even they need water. The greatest need to a woody seedling following planting is water for growing fibrous roots quickly.
Here are some points to consider to increase survival.
If planting bare root stock, a good soaking seedling of the roots for an hour before planting can increase survival.
How much water? About 32 oz. within an hour after planting. This helps settle the soil and rehydrate roots
How often? Every 2 to 3 days with about 24 oz. using a slow soak method to penetrate the soil to 12 inches-Water quality is important and too much total dissolved salts can lead to injury and death of seedlings.
The second year seedlings still benefit from supplemental watering.
How often and how much water in year 2? Twice a week with one gallon at each watering.
The third year and in case of drought water once per week using 4 gallons. For more watering information, please contact Jeff Stewart