How to Keep New Plants Alive

[ny96]

We got a bunch of new plants for our front which was previously overgrown with lavender bushes. I planted everything on Sunday morning. The soil was dry and rocky so after planting I dumped a couple large bags of soil over the plants and then watered everything. I went out there tonight and rewatered, but the sage I planted has already wilted (3 plants in all) and I’m worried it’s going to die. Any suggestions of what I could do to help it survive? When I watered tonight the soil was pretty dry again, but it’s been a very hot day.

[mrsukyankee]

Make sure to water DEEPLY - as in, a lot of water but slowly in one spot. Especially if you planted into dry soil - the water needs to get to the roots. And cover it with mulch of some sort, which will retain the water. If it's sunny and hot, water in the evenings.

[InBetweenDays]

Did you dig the hole deep and wide enough? It should be wider and deeper than the container the plant came in. I would probably replant them, make the hole bigger, and fill the hole with the good potting soil (not just add it on top). Then add some sort of mulch layer to keep the moisture in. I also agree with making sure you water deeply.

[ny96]

Aug 8, 2023 12:19:42 GMT -5 InBetweenDays said:

Did you dig the hole deep and wide enough? It should be wider and deeper than the container the plant came in. I would probably replant them, make the hole bigger, and fill the hole with the good potting soil (not just add it on top). Then add some sort of mulch layer to keep the moisture in. I also agree with making sure you water deeply.

Because of all the rocks (and it’s a planter box) I wasn’t able to dig as deeply as I wanted to. I’m going to get more soil and a couple bags of mulch and replant today.