Tree Watering… Everything You Need To Know.

Young Trees
After planting a tree, watering needs to happen at the roots around the trunk (not the trunk itself and not the area outside the root ball.) Newly planted trees or shrubs require more frequent watering until they establish a good root system. After planting, water daily for the first two weeks. Then water every 3 days for the next 3 months. After 3 months, water weekly until roots are established. It is recommended to create and maintain a 3-foot wide, 2” to 4” deep organic mulch ring around the trunk for its entire life, to help maintain soil moisture. Do NOT put mulch against the trunk!! Check out our blog about tree planting for more info https://myfertilizingcompany.com/treemulch/

Mature Trees
Mature trees generally require less consistent care but during droughts every tree must be monitored and watered accordingly. When summer temperatures heat up, trees need about 10 gallons of water per 1 inch of trunk diameter per week. (example: A tree with a 12” trunk diameter, measured at chest height, would need 120 gallons per week.)

Watering Methods
Trees prefer infrequent slow release deep water soakings. To check if your soil has enough water, lightly dig  2-3 inches into the soil. If your soil feels moist to the touch you have adequate water, but if it feels dry it is time to water.

Most trees need moist soil that drains well, especially Conifers (Pines, spruces, junipers, hemlocks, redwoods, arborvitaes…)… But keep in mind that roots need oxygen to thrive. Overwatering can lead to root rot.