PlantinG and renovation 51
with evergreen boughs, specifically old Christmas trees, cut into manageable
pieces. Be sure they are light and open, such as pines. Rodents can also be a
problem under the covers.
Mulch is generally sold in 2- and 3-cu.-ft.-size bags; it is also available in bulk
in 1-cu.-yd. increments. To calculate the total number of 3-cu.-ft. bags of mulch
needed to apply 2 in. of material to an area, divide the total square footage of the
planting bed by 18 sq. ft. To calculate the number of 2-cu.-ft. bags needed, divide
the square footage by 12 sq. ft. If using bulk material, 1 cu. yd. of material will
cover 162 sq. ft.WATERING
Proper watering of the newly planted perennial bed is vital to establishment of
the plants. It is a good idea to check the new bed every other day for the first
month after planting, not only to help guard against plants drying out, but also to
allow you to get in touch with your new garden. Plants should be watered well, by
hand, immediately after planting and mulching. With hand watering, water can
be directed under the foliage right on the root ball where it is needed. I like to use
a water wand because it makes it easy to reach into the plants and apply the right
amount of water. A water wand is a long plastic extension with a nozzle on the
end that can be attached to the end of a hose to deliver a fine spray of water.
The rule of 1 in. of water per week holds true while the plants are establishing.
Use a rain gauge to determine how much water is being applied. Cans set up in
various areas can determine coverage if a sprinkler is being used for watering.
When perennials are just establishing, shallower and more frequent watering is
needed because the plants are not yet rooted very deeply. As the plants become
more established, after the first month, less frequent, deeper waterings are
required to encourage the perennials to root more deeply and increase their
drought resistance. Watering in the morning helps reduce incidence of disease
and water lost through evaporation. Keep a close watch on watering in the first
year to ensure that plants are not overwatered or underwatered. In subsequent
years, plants can become acclimated to drier conditions with less frequentA fine, light-textured mulch is
ideal for perennials.