Shrubs under large trees are especially susceptible. Plants are more prone to suffer from drought during their first two growing seasons after transplanting. Late spring or summer transplants are the most susceptible. When there is an extended period without rain during the summer, new plants should be watered at least once a week. Established woody plants should be watered every 10 days.
Fertilization affects the tolerance of plants to dry weather.
Recent or heavily fertilized plants can suffer root damage if water becomes depleted. Low humidity, wind, and bright, sunny days increase the need to water. Mulching and incorporating organic matter into the soil will decrease the need to water. It is important to water thoroughly and to allow the soil to dry between waters. Frequent, light watering wastes water and leads to the development of a shallow root system.