Knowing how often to water newly planted trees can mean the difference between a lush, quickly growing specimen and a sad, rotting one. Why risk the life of your sapling when a little bit of due diligence can save the day?
As one of Milford’s excellent tree removal services, we at Arbor Green Tree Service LLC know a thing or two about plant hydration. Keep reading as we break down the nitty-gritty details and help your living landscape thrive!
Follow a Strict Watering Schedule
While factors like tree species, microclimate, and soil composition all play a role in determining the perfect watering schedule, here’s a good guide to start you off on the right foot:
- Water daily for one to two weeks after planting
- Water every two to three days for the next three to 12 weeks
- After 12 weeks, water weekly until the roots establish themselves
Always remember that young trees require your vigilant attention, especially during their tender initial growth phase. Watch out for prolonged periods of dry weather or drought conditions. If the top two inches of the soil feel dry to the touch, it’s time to break out the hose, regardless of the calendar.
How You Water Is Equally Crucial
Knowing how often to water newly planted trees is just half the battle. The method of watering is equally pivotal, if not more.
Ideally, you should provide two to three gallons of water per inch of tree trunk diameter. The goal here is not merely to moisten the surface but to hydrate the root ball, encouraging those roots to sink deeper and sturdier into the ground.
This practice will protect your tree from toppling over in strong winds and help it survive prolonged dry spells. Consider using a soaker hose or a tree watering bag for optimal watering depth.
Mulch Is Your Best Friend
If you have ever walked through a forest and witnessed a blanket of leaves and organic matter on the forest floor, then you have seen nature’s version of mulch in action. You can mimic these natural conditions and make watering a breeze by:
- Conserving soil moisture by reducing the rate of evaporation
- Moderating soil temperatures, keeping the roots cool in the summer and warm in the winter
- Preventing soil compaction and erosion
- Suppressing the growth of weeds that compete for water and nutrients
Apply an even layer of mulch up to the drip line, and keep a distance of about two to three inches from the trunk to avoid any potential rot or pest issues. Learn more how to mulch around trees.
Consult a Local Expert
Giving a sapling the care it needs can feel extremely challenging, especially if you don’t have much experience caring for trees. Why not leave this task to our crew at Arbor Green Tree Service LLC? We know exactly how often to water newly planted trees and encourage proper root establishment.
Give us a call at (203) 615-2496 if you plan to plant more trees on your property!