Watering

Unlike grass and other plants, trees need deep and slow watering to develop strong root systems and thrive

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Frequently asked questions

How to water young trees

1-3 years after planting

An illustration shows a 5-gallon bucket with a small hole near the bottom placed near the rootball of a young tree to water it. The tree has been mulched with wood chips to conserve moisture.

For the first three years after planting, all trees need regular water to get established. Don't rely on lawn sprinklers — they do not soak soil deeply enough to encourage a healthy, deep root system for your tree.

The roots of young trees are located mostly near the trunk.

The easiest way to water young trees? Drill a small 1/8" hole near the bottom of a 5-gallon bucket. Place a piece of duct tape over the hole, fill the bucket with water, place it near the root ball, and remove the tape to allow water to slowly drain into the soil.

 

AGE  FREQUENCY  AMOUNT
1 yr  2-3 times/week  1 bucket
2 yrs  Once per week  2 buckets
 3 yrs  Every other week  3 buckets

 

You can also use a small soaker hose, drip tubing or emitters, or a hose sprinkler on a very low setting. Avoid spraying the trunk, and expand the watering zone outward as the tree grows.

These items are helpful to have on hand:

5 gallon bucket

Cordless drill with 1/8" bit

Duct tape

Hose or spigot nearby

How to water established trees

3+ years after planting

An illustration shows the drip line of a mature tree, which is the circular area just underneath the furthest reaches of its branches. This is where to apply water. Wood chip mulch has been applied around the tree to help conserve water.

Don't rely on lawn sprinklers - they won't water deeply enough to reach tree roots. Instead, slowly soak the tree's drip line, the circular area under the farthest reaches of the branches, until water reaches 12-18 inches below the surface. Don't water close to the trunk.

You can use:

  • A soaker hose
  • A hose sprinkler on a low setting
  • Drip tubing or emitters

If the root zone extends under hardscape or beyond your property, slowly soak as much of the root zone as possible.

Native trees like blue oaks, which have never received regular irrigation, may be harmed by adding extra water in the summer. Depending on rainfall, they may need supplemental water from fall through spring in dry years. Contact a certified arborist if you have questions about the health of your native or mature tree.