I have two for the first time this year. I love 'em. Probably would not have got 'em but they were six bucks a pop for 50 footers. I find I really have not used them very often thus far but it's nice knowing they'll be hiding there under the mulch when I need 'em in midsummer.

Some people don't water at all , especially well established stuff, but if you do water a soaker hose is a nice way to go.

Your maples will love them especially ;)

I agree with the last reply that the maples will love them... Norway maples are notorious for being difficult to grow anything under. They are shallow rooted and will spread their roots far in search of moisture. I tried unsuccessfully to grow shrubs and perennials within 30ft of Norway Maples on our last property. The maple roots invaded my nice amended soil beds and my plantings did not thrive.

I know you won't like this advice, but as the maples are young, you may want to consider getting rid of them and planting other trees. Norway Maples are now considered invasive because their seedlings pop up everywhere and are displacing native trees.

Ellen

Thanks both for your comments. I am very aware of the Norway Maple problem. Unfortunatly, they are nearly the only mature trees we have on the south side of our property, thus shading the house. The ones neares my new bed will be removed this winter. They are about 25' high, so that may also change my shade conditions. It's fun to experiment, although perhaps a little costly.

G.

Cut down the norway maples.For sure,thats the first step towards improving your yard.Many trees will grow to that height within a reasonable amount of time.There nothing more depressing than a grove of NMs to the trained eye. something you will come to realise.And forget about ever being able to plant anything under them.

nywoodsman,

Thanks for your input and for reviving my thread. As long as it's back, I feel I should update.

Last summer, I tried using the soaker hose, but it didn't seem to do much beyond wetting the soil just under the hose itself, so I stopped using it and only hand watered during dry times.

As for the Norway Maples, I didn't get them down this past winter as planned, but will try again after the ground freezes.

And my shade garden? I'm thrilled to say that all but two plants, a blood root and a woodland phlox have come back, some doubling in size and starting to fill in the area nicely. Last year I also added several Jack in the Pulpits, doll's eyes and bugbane. I have transplanted some sweet woodruff and twin flower and plan to do the same with some wild ginger and spring beauties that are scattered about the property. I also added some wintergreen, columbine and a few other little goodies who's names escape me. I'm very happy with the results so far.