Do You Water Newly Planted Trees in the Winter?

Planting trees in your yard can be a great way to add beauty, increase privacy, and provide shade to your home. However, planting trees is not a one-time job. For new trees to thrive, they require proper care and maintenance, including watering. So, the question is: Do you water newly planted trees in the winter?

Why Watering is Important for Newly Planted Trees?

Watering is essential for newly planted trees to survive the first few years of their life. Trees need water to develop strong roots, which will help them withstand weather extremes, including hot summers and cold winters. Young trees have small root systems that rely on soil moisture to stay hydrated. If they do not receive enough water, they could wither and die.

Is Watering Necessary During Winter?

Although most people assume that trees do not need water during winter, this is not entirely true. Winter watering is crucial for newly planted trees, especially if there is a prolonged dry spell or if the tree is located in an area with very low humidity.

In areas that experience freezing temperatures, the soil may freeze, making it difficult for the tree roots to absorb water. However, winter watering can help prevent desiccation, which is the process of losing water through evaporation. Trees with dry roots are more susceptible to winter injury, such as sunscald or damage from cold, dry winds.

How to Water Newly Planted Trees in Winter?

When it comes to winter watering, it is essential to water slowly and deeply. The idea is to add moisture to the soil around the tree's root zone, where it can be absorbed by the roots. You can do this by using a garden hose or a watering can. Avoid using sprinklers, as water may freeze, causing damage to the tree.

As a rule of thumb, water the tree once a week during the winter months, unless there is rainfall, or the ground is already wet from snow or ice. Watering in the morning is ideal, as it allows the plant enough time to absorb the moisture before the temperatures drop in the evening.

Conclusion

Watering is essential for newly planted trees, including during the winter season. If trees do not receive enough water, they could become stressed, leading to disease or pest infestations. Therefore, make it a point to water your newly planted trees once a week during winter, and you will enjoy healthy, thriving trees for years to come.