When and How to Water Your Trees
Tree watering is an important part of your tree care and it is not easy to make
recommendations about when and how to water your trees, because there are many
variables such as climate, soil, tree age, etc. However, there are a few good
rules of thumb that will help ensure you are watering correctly.
Newly Planted Trees – Water newly planted trees immediately after
you plant a tree.
Trees Up to Two Years of Age – During the first two years of growing seasons, a lot of energy is expended by your new trees for the roost to become established in the soil. In
the first couple of years your trees will have a harder time dealing with heat
and drought than once they are established. Make this a little easier for them
by providing water and making sure the soil is covered with mulch. Deep
watering helps to speed up established roots. Deep water keeps the soil moist
to a depth that includes all the roots.
How Much Water and When – If your trees are not getting enough water it can harm your trees. However, getting too much water can also damage your trees. Over-watering is the
most common mistake made in tree care. Moist is not the same as soggy. Damp
soil that dries for a short time lets enough oxygen permeate the soil.
Generally your soil should be moist. As a general rule a steady stream of water from a
garden hose for 30 seconds. Mulching is retains the moisture in the soil.
You can check soil moisture with your garden trowel. Insert it into the ground about
2″, and move the blade of the trowel back and forth creating a narrow
trench. With your finger touch the soil to see if it needs water.
Watering After Two Years – Once
your trees have established roots they can withstand a wider range of water
conditions.
