How Often to Water Newly Planted Bare Root Trees

Planting bare root trees is a great way to establish new trees in your garden or orchard. However, with bare root trees, you need to take extra care when watering them for the first few months after planting to ensure their success.

Watering Frequency and Amount

The frequency and amount of water you use for bare root trees will depend on a range of factors such as the tree species, soil type, weather conditions, and planting location. As a general rule of thumb, you should water your newly planted bare root trees once or twice a week, especially if the weather is dry and hot. During the first few weeks after planting, you should water your trees more frequently, every 2-3 days, to encourage roots to grow and establish.

It's essential to give your trees a deep soak rather than a light sprinkling. This will encourage the roots to grow downward into the soil, making them stronger and more resilient to drought. You should water the soil around the tree to a depth of 12-18 inches each time you water it. By applying a generous amount of water, it will seep deep into the soil so that the roots absorb it more easily.

Mulching

Mulching around your newly planted trees is a great way to conserve soil moisture and protect the roots from extreme temperature changes. After watering your bare root trees, spread a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch such as shredded leaves, straw, or bark chips around the base of the tree, making a donut shape about three feet in diameter. Mulch will help keep the roots cool and moist during hot weather and reduce water evaporation from the soil, making it more available to the plant roots.

Weather and Environment

Monitoring your trees' soil moisture level is essential in the first few months after planting. Check the soil moisture level regularly by digging down into the soil with a spade or trowel. If the soil feels dry to the touch about an inch or two down, it's time to water the tree again. However, be mindful of overwatering, which can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.

Your watering routine should also take into account the weather and environmental conditions. If it's been raining heavily or consistently, you may not need to water your tree as much. Similarly, if there has been a prolonged dry spell or heatwave, you may need to increase watering frequency until the tree is established.

Conclusion

Watering your newly planted bare root trees properly during the first few months is critical to their success. By supplying your trees with the optimal amount of water and taking precautions such as mulching and monitoring environmental conditions, you will help them grow strong and healthy for years to come.