Watering Loropetalum

Author Keri Byrum 6-24-2020

Watering loropetalum correctly gives your plants the help they need to thrive. Whether in a container or planted in the ground, a well-watered loropetalum will develop a strong root system to grow and survive in your garden. 

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How to Tell if the Plant Needs Watered

The leaves on the tips of branches will be the first to tell if your loropetalum needs water. Look for drooping tips and folded leaves showing you its time to water. Plants in containers may show dry soil and the container will be much lighter when water is needed.  This image is what the leaves look like on a well-watered shrub. 

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How Often To Water Loropetalum

Newly planted loropetalum will need to be watered frequently while they grow roots into the new soil. Planting in warmer months means your new loropetalum will need to be watered more frequently. For warm, dry weather this may mean every other day to begin. Planting in cooler months will decrease the frequency of watering although it will still be just as important.

Once loropetalum are established they will need regular watering. For your loropetalum to continue to look its best plan to water once per week throughout the year. Remember that rain counts too, so if there is rain in the forecast you may not need to add additional water to your plants.

Loropetalum in pots should be watered regularly to keep soil moist. For most situations, this will mean once to twice per week. Plants will do best when they are watered deeply; look for water to come out the drainage holes of your pot to indicate that all of the soil is wet. This will encourage your loropetalum to develop a deep root system and become less dependent on frequent watering.

Best Time To Water Loropetalum

All plants do best when watered in the early morning hours. This gives the loropetalum the moisture they need to grow without having wet leaves through the evening hours that could lead to fungal issues. 

How to Water Loropetalum

Step 1 - Evaluate
Loropetalum will grow best when they receive regular moisture. However, if there has been rain recently or is forecasted it may be best to wait.

Step 2 - Watering
Water your loropetalum deeply. It is better to provide plenty of water once a week than a little bit of water every day. Watering deeply encourages plants to develop a deep, drought resistant root system.

Step 3 – Monitor
Look for curled leaves to indicate when loropetalum needs more water. The tips of the branches will show wilt first, so this is a good indicator of soil getting too dry.

Loropetalum Watering Tips

  • Regular watering will keep loropetalum growing healthy.
  • Water deeply rather than frequently to develop a deep root system.
  • Leaves at the branch tips will show wilting first to indicate watering is needed.

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