| Why is my rose bush looking dried up after transplanting two weeks ago? I have treated the soil with Miracle Grow Rose garden soil and water it for about 10 minutes once a day in early morning. |
| June is the most difficult time to plant in the low desert because it is our hottest, driest month. Transplant shock may be part of the issue, as well as over or underwatering. I can't say definately without knowing how much water is being put out in those 10 minutes, but I'd guess that it is not enough. Water needs to soak through the entire rootball depth 1 to 2 feet depending on its size at planting, and 10 minutes, if you are using drip irrigation, probably isn't enough water. Alternatively, plant roots need oxygen, and if soil is constantly wet, they can't obtain it. Use a soil probe to help determine how often to apply water (such as a pointed stick or metal rod) and poke it into the soil. It will move easily through moist soil and stop at dry soil. Water deeply and as infrequently as possible. When the top inch of soil dries out, rewater, again soaking to the appropriate depth. You might also want to erect a temporary shade cloth over the bush to protect it from hot afternoon sun while it develops its root system. I hope this info helps! |
