Expert: Jim Hyland - 10/21/2007

Question
I planted about 20 Emerald Green Arbrovites a few weeks ago (Oct 2007). Since planting, I have been watering them about every 3-4 days with a root waterer (the kind you drive into the ground and supposley water teh root ball). But now, the inside of the shrubs are turning brown on many of the shoots.

Is this just transplant shock? Could it be a watering problem?  Also, is there something I can do to help them? I do not want to lose the trees.

Answer
Sounds like shock. I would water when the soil under the tree is dry. (the 3-4 days sounds about right). If you have not done it I would mulch around the trees with not more than 3 inches of mulch. This will help hold the moisture. Sounds like you are doing everything right.