How Long to Water a Newly Planted Tree

Planting a tree is a great way to enhance the beauty of your outdoor space while improving air quality and providing wildlife habitat. However, a key factor in ensuring its growth and survival is proper watering. If you're a first-time tree planter, you may be wondering how long to water a newly planted tree. In this article, we'll provide you with some guidelines to ensure your tree gets the right amount of water it needs.

Watering Frequency

Watering frequency depends on several factors such as soil type, tree species, and weather conditions. Generally, newly planted trees need frequent watering as their roots haven't yet established themselves in the soil to draw water from it. As a rule of thumb, you should water your tree once a week for the first year after planting.

During hot and dry periods, you may need to water more frequently as the tree may lose moisture quickly. To determine the watering frequency, you can stick a finger into the soil around the tree's roots. If the soil is dry about 1-2 inches below the surface, it's time to water.

Watering Amount

The amount of water you provide is also important to ensure the tree's healthy growth. Generally, a newly planted tree needs about 10 gallons of water per week for the first year after planting. However, this may vary depending on the type of soil, the species of tree, and the climate in your area.

A helpful tip for watering newly planted trees is to create a watering basin around the tree by building a low berm of soil about 3-4 inches high in a circle around the tree. This way, the water can be retained and slowly seep into the soil around the root system.

Time of Day to Water

Another consideration is the best time of day to water your tree. Watering in the early morning is the best as it allows the tree to absorb the water before the heat of the day evaporates it. Watering in the evening is not recommended as it may lead to fungal growth or disease in the tree.

If you can't water in the morning, the next best time is late afternoon. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day as it may cause the water to evaporate before the tree can absorb it.

Conclusion

Proper watering is crucial to the growth and health of a newly planted tree. By following the guidelines mentioned above, you can ensure that your tree gets the right amount of water it needs to establish and thrive. Remember, the first year after planting is critical, and with proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of your tree for years to come.