Newly planted trees and shrubs have a very restricted root absorption zone. These plantings should be checked often during the first two years of growth. Water at 7 to 10 day intervals if the soil moisture checks indicates moisture lacking. Over watering can be as much a problem as under watering because water replaces oxygen in the soil pores. Be sure to check the root ball area because the roots have not reached the new soil area and more water absorption area.
Plants vary in their expression of drought stress.
With some plants the leaves may begin to wilt, drop or roll, others such as grasses, turn a bluish or purple color as they dry up. We can watch the plants and water when we identify the above characteristics. Always check the soil before watering plants to avoid over-watering. Lawns with a high degree of slope present a particular problem. It is very easy for water to run down the slope without penetrating the soil.