How to Water Your Trees Like a Pro This Summer

Does your yard have trees? If you planted big trees, small trees, and perhaps a new baby sapling a few months ago, you should know how to care for them. Summertime is approaching, and the heat insidiously creeps into the surrounding soil. Your trees silently (or not-so-silently) start clamoring for a drink. Discover how to water trees for optimal growth and health.

How to Water Your Trees Like a Pro This Summer

Don’t Spray and Walk Away

You know that lazy trick? You stand around with a garden hose, spray the trunk for a minute while deciding what to have for lunch, then stroll away as if you’re done for the day. Your tree despises it—Seriously.

When you take this approach, your trees are not getting anything beneficial. You’re only soaking the bark like a drive-through car wash, not watering the tree root.

The actual growth activity occurs in the ground. Roots don’t linger at ground level as you might expect. They’re in the area just outside the topsoil, known as the “drip line.” That’s where the water should go, not around the base of the trunk.

Most of a tree’s roots are located in the critical root zone. This is in the top 24 inches of soil. Most roots are shallow. However, some tree types develop deeper roots for anchoring.

Invest in a soaker hose or drip irrigation system, running it low and slow. Remember, you’re not filling a glass of water—think of it like you’re filling a bathtub.

Mornings are the VIP Time Slot

Imagine being handed a steaming hot cup of coffee in the middle of a desert hike during the peak sun hours of the day. That’s what watering your trees in the afternoon feels like to them. They won’t appreciate it—Most of the water will evaporate before the trees can use it.

Your best bet is watering in the morning, early, before the sun can throw a heatwave party. Your trees will have a chance to get a drink before the heat of the daily hustle.

For newly planted trees, it is essential to thoroughly water and mulch around the root ball to retain moisture.

This watering strategy allows the roots to drink in the water before there’s a race for it with evaporation. Proper watering helps to avoid fungal problems. This can happen when foliage is left moist overnight.

Deep Drinks, Not Quick Sips

Trees don’t like shallow watering. You’re not attempting to tickle the surface, here. You’re trying to find your way down to those lower-level roots. Make your watering count.

Light, frequent watering invites roots to stay near the top of the soil. That’s where they also get into trouble. Shallow roots can’t survive:

• Periods of drought
• Heat
• Even a mildly gruff squirrel

Go for fewer waterings—but make them a deep watering that lasts. Imagine a spa, not a gym shower.

You’ve hit the jackpot if your soil is moist eight to ten inches down. If it’s dry to half that level, your tree’s essentially drinking from a dry cup.

Pay Close Attention to Newcomers

Trees are similar to toddlers—requiring attention, patience, and constant care. Without it, they’ll silently throw a tantrum and gradually deteriorate while you ask yourself what happened. They’re developing root structures and are not good at enduring dry spells.

You must establish a good watering schedule during the growing season for the first few years. Apply water with one or two good soaks a week. The amount of water needed is based on:

• How dry and hot it is
• Weather conditions
• Soil moisture level

Doing this should keep them in good spirits. Stick your finger in the ground at the base of the tree—if it’s dry a couple of inches in, it’s time for a drink.

A layer of organic mulch around young trees can help retain moisture and promote healthy growth.

Your Trees Will Thank You

Trees don’t flash neon signs when they’re in good health, but they do leave you clues that things are all good.

Leaves will remain full instead of curling up in protest. Fresh growth appears with no hesitation, and the yard seems more shady.

Pick up that hose, install your system, and give those roots the water they cry out for.

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