Newly Planted Indian Laurel Tree - Knowledgebase Question

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Question by chrisromero1
December 12, 2008
I just planted a indian laurel tree and want to know how much to water without overwatering and causing the tree to die. I live in the south west desert called Imperial Valley and the soil is like clay. I applied some product called soil buster and it is suppose to break the soil element down to help absorb the water. I have planted two indian laurel trees before and they died within two weeks due to poor drainage in the soil.
thank you


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Answer from NGA
December 12, 2008
Uploaded by purpleinopp
Clay soil tends to hold water for a long period of time so overwatering can quickly kill the roots of a tree or shrub. Since you've just planted your laurel, you'll want to water it regularly to help the root system establish. One deep soaking per week should do it. You didn't mention where you live - if your winters are mild (above freezing), water once each week. If your winter weather is cold, you won't need to water as frequently because your laurel won't be actively growing. In this case, water deeply every 2-3 weeks. You might also try watering via a water well or a basin. Simply scrape some soil out in a circle 12" from the main stem of your laurel and mound the soil up around the perimeter of the basin. Fill this basin with water, allow to drain, then fill it a second time. This method of watering concentrates the moisture over the root mass and allows it to trickle down, wetting the entire root system. Hope this information is helpful!

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