Question
Cincinnati, Ohio. We just bought five 5' tall emerald green arborvitae to put in the corner of our backyard. We planted them 1.5 weeks ago, and thought we did everything right. Dug large holes, mixed top soil with manure and peat moss and existing soil, didn't fertilize, watered after planting, etc. They get full to half day sun. We put mulch around them, but not directly against the roots (after someone told me that is bad). So, I am possibly premature in writing, but they have a hint of brown toward the top that they didnt have before. I watered them the day I planted them and then didn't water again for a week (which some say might have been my problem), but now I give them one gallon of water every 3-4 days. Do you think they were dehydtrated? I know they must be in shock as well and our soil is very clay! I am worried about them since they are so new! I really want them to do well!

Thanks,
Sarah

Answer
Sarah,
It sounds like the Arbs are going into transplant shock due to inadequate moisture. New transplants require watering on a regular basis for at least the first 4- 5 weeks after after installation, depending on rainfall.
I recommend watering the plants more often, as long as the clay soils are not causing the water to puddle up around the plants, and if you are not getting rain. I think they should recover on their own.
Good luck.
Ed Gulliksen