I also consider myself a rookie, though I've been at it for two to three years. We have an old farm in Pa, and I've always watered my plug after I've replaced it. I've been told by more experienced folks that it's not neccessary, but I've never had any dead grass to contend with. Makes it easier dealing with the Boss (wife). I save soda or water bottles, fill them, and pour about a cup or so on each plug. When it's real dry out, I use about 20 ounces.