SPRING: March, April, May

Depending on the rainfall, plants normally don’t need to be watered as often in the spring season.
TREES
If we go through the season with little rain, a long single soaking (24-48 hours depending on the tree size) could be enough to get it through the spring.
SHRUBS
If we are going through a drought, shrubs may need to be watered once a month. If an irrigation system is running, shrubs will not need any addition watering.
PERENNIALS, ANNUALS AND HOUSEPLANTS
Smaller plants will need water if we go though multiple weeks of dry weather. Because their root systems are much smaller and shallower, it is easier for them to dry out faster. No additional watering is needed if your irrigation system is running.

SUMMER: June, July, August

These are the months that need the most attention. You want to make sure that your plants are getting enough water. Mid-Missouri can have some very hot and dry summers.
TREES
At time of planting, water the tree (up to 3”) with a slow drip for 24 hours. If the tree is over 3”, the slow drip should be 48 hours. Time between watering after that will vary depending on your soil and if you have irrigation. During summer weather you will probably need to water every seven to 14 days depending on plant type/irrigation. To check moisture level of the tree, dig down at least eight to 10 inches alongside the root ball, soil in root ball should be moist not powder dry be watering again. Clay: Depending on the severity of your clay soil, check for watering every seven days. Clay tends to hold moisture for a longer period of time, so watering once every two to three weeks may be sufficient through the summer months.
SHRUBS
Irrigation in beds will help with shrubs. Newly planted shrubs may need additional water beyond what an irrigation system will give (you do not want to drown other plants). Check newly planted shrubs on a regular basis (about once a week) to get an idea how fast they are using water.
PERENNIALS
Water 1 gallon container plants different that a 5 gallon container plants. There could be a 1-3 hour difference. (A small #1 container will dry out much faster than a #5). In beds without an irrigation system, soaker hoses work very well to water a large area at once. Group watering to the plant that needs the least amount of water. Individually water the plants that need additional water beyond the group to prevent drowning the other plants.

FALL: September, October, November

During the fall season, frequent watering is usually not needed because of the amount of moisture received in the fall. If it is a dry fall, the summer watering technique should continue but with further duration between watering’s.

WINTER: December, January, February

Depending on rainfall and temperatures, plants normally do not need to be watered often in the winter.
TREES & SHRUBS
If watering is necessary , do so on a midday (45-50 degrees) to allow the water to penetrate the soil and root ball. Follow slow drip method by placing a hose at the top of the root ball and letting it drip. PERENNIALS
Same rules as above apply, but utilizing overhead watering.