Q: Several months ago, I planted a Sophora secundiflora in a well-prepared, well-drained spot.Β When I purchased the plant, I asked about watering and was told, βDonβt let it dry out.β The shrub had what I considered a poorly developed root system. I used a 2-inch layer of pea-sized gravel for mulch. About a month after it was planted, I noticed yellowing of the leaves. Thinking this might be chlorosis, I looked for causes of this on the Web. The one that kept coming back up was overwatering. So I decreased watering. Now I am thinking it was not chlorosis, and withholding water was a bad idea. The buds at the base of the leaf petioles still seem hydrated, as do the twigs and stems. Any ideas on what I should or should not do to ensure this shrub survives?
A:Β Texas mountain laurel is a drought-tolerant species native to the Southwest and requires well-drained soil and infrequent watering. During the first year after it is planted, it can be watered once a week. After that, it is best to change your irrigation schedule to once every 14 to 21 days except for winter, when you can stop irrigating until spring each year. Unfortunately, the symptoms of overwatering can look like underwatering, so itβs understandable how you could mistake one for the other. Transplanting stress may also be a factor in the first year and show up the same way. Many plants purchased in containers have greatly reduced root systems, so some of that is expected. The important thing is to provide good care while the tree becomes established. Time will tell if your tree will survive. It may just drop the yellow leaves and releaf.
