A Guide to Properly Watering Your Trees
Introduction
As the hot days of summer settle in and rainfall becomes scarce, it’s essential to provide your trees with the supplemental water they need to thrive. But what’s the best method for watering your trees? How much water should they receive? In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about properly watering your trees.
When Should I Water My Trees?
Watering at the right time of day is crucial to ensure your trees absorb the maximum amount of moisture. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day, typically between 12pm and 4pm, as a significant portion of water will evaporate before reaching the roots.
Instead, water your trees early in the morning or in the evening. This timing allows the roots to absorb the water effectively without the risk of rapid evaporation.
How Often Should I Water?
The frequency of watering depends on several factors, including the tree’s size, the weather conditions, and the quality of your soil. Here’s how you can determine the optimal watering schedule:
- Check the Soil Moisture: Dig down 2-3 inches into the soil using a small garden trowel. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged or bone dry.
- Maintain Consistency: Keep the soil around your trees consistently moist. Avoid letting the soil completely dry out or become overly saturated, as both conditions can harm your trees.
- Monitor During Droughts: During periods of drought or heat waves, check the soil more frequently to ensure your trees are getting adequate water.
How Much Water Do Trees Need?
Measuring Tree Circumference to Determine Diameter and Health
Established Trees
For established trees, the general rule is to provide ten gallons of water per inch of the tree’s diameter. To calculate the diameter accurately, use a tape measure or ruler to measure the circumference at 4.5 feet above the ground, and then calculate DBH (diameter at breast height). However, this rule is a simplified guideline and should be adjusted based on:
- Soil Type: Sandy soils require more frequent watering, while clay soils retain moisture longer.
- Climate Zone: Trees in arid climates need more water than those in humid regions.
- Tree Species: Some trees are naturally drought tolerant and require less water.
- Local Rainfall: Adjust watering based on recent rainfall amounts to avoid overwatering.
Newly Planted Trees
Newly planted trees require additional care, as their root systems are still developing. However, the watering schedule should be flexible to account for different climates, soil types, and tree sizes:
- Check Soil Daily: Instead of rigidly watering daily, check the soil moisture daily and water only when needed.
- Account for Tree Size: At planting, larger trees may need more water compared to smaller ones due to their greater root mass.
- First Month: In general, aim to keep the root ball consistently moist for the first month after planting, adjusting as necessary based on conditions.
- Subsequent Months: After the first month, water weekly or as needed based on the tree's progress and local conditions.
Initially, the roots will be confined to the root ball. Once they start extending outward, you can water the tree using the same method as for established trees.
How Do I Stop the Soil from Drying Out Too Quickly?
Applying Mulch Around a Tree to Retain Moisture and Protect Roots
Mulching is an effective way to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature around your trees. Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the bases of your trees, especially if you live in an area prone to excessive heat and drought. Be sure to:
- Keep the mulch a few inches away from the tree trunk to prevent rot.
- Spread the mulch evenly in a wide circle around the tree.
Make Watering a Year-Round Habit
While watering is critical during the summer, it’s essential to maintain this habit year-round. Even during the colder months, your dormant trees still need water to sustain their growth.
Why Year-Round Watering Matters
Trees don’t stop functioning completely in winter. While their growth slows, their roots continue to absorb moisture and nutrients. Without adequate water during the colder months, trees can experience drought stress, which may weaken them and make them more susceptible to disease and pests come spring.
Tips for Winter Watering:
- Choose the Right Time: Only water when the soil and air temperatures are above 40°F. Watering when the ground is frozen is ineffective and can create ice hazards.
- Water at Midday with Care: While midday watering is typically discouraged due to evaporation, winter is an exception. Watering during the warmer part of the day, around midday, ensures that the water seeps into the soil before temperatures drop at night and prevents freezing on the surface. This nuance is critical to avoid confusion with summer watering practices.
- Focus on Evergreens: Evergreen trees, unlike deciduous ones, continue to lose moisture through their needles in winter and require more frequent watering.
Other Seasonal Considerations:
- Spring: As the weather warms up, gradually increase your watering schedule to support the new growth phase.
- Fall: During this season, water deeply before the first hard freeze to ensure that your trees are well hydrated heading into winter.
By establishing a consistent watering routine throughout the year and adapting it to seasonal changes, you help your trees remain resilient and healthy no matter the season.
Final Thoughts
Proper watering is vital for the health and longevity of your trees. By sticking to a regular schedule and monitoring soil moisture, you can ensure your trees remain strong and vibrant.
Originally posted on August 14, 2018.
