Irrigating newly planted trees
The hard work is done. Maybe you dug that hole, and planted it yourself. Or maybe you just moved into a new build and you don’t have a clue what to do with your newly planted trees.
Here’s a few tips on when to irrigate those new beauties:
Water trees when the sun is starting to set. Trees have lost moisture through their leaves all day and would love a drink. I program trees to run (assuming you have an irrigation system already. If not, we can help you with that!) starting @ 7-8pm when the wind starts to settle down. That’s a great window for them to start to absorb water before the sun starts to dry out that soil the following day.
How long to water?
Duration depends on the method you’re using to Irrigate:
Irrigation bubblers- Anywhere from 20min- 2 hrs (depends on water output)
Spray heads (I do not recommend this method as the output is too high per minute to allow soil to absorb the water)
Drip systems 30min-1hr (again depends on water output from manufacturer)
Garden hose- this method can be used if you don’t have currently have irrigation. The idea here is low and slow. You want that soil to absorb the water. Too high of an output can result in inefficient watering and runoff, possibly damaging tree.
Below is a guide for watering with a garden hose on low. The same application can be applied to the bubbler method, mentioned above:
Times to water (with hose running between halfway and a trickle): 3-10 Gallon Tree: 8-12 minutes every 2 days (unless root ball is saturated) 15-30 Gallon Tree: 20-30 minutes 2-3 times a week (unless root ball is saturated) 45+ Gallon Tree: 60-90 minutes 2-3 times a week (unless root ball is saturated) Be sure to continue watering during winter, but not right before a freeze.
Soil can only retain water so fast. There are many variable when it comes to watering a tree, shrubs or even grass. At the same time you don’t need to overthink it. In my opinion, anyone can have what they call a “green thumb”. Just like with most things, it takes trial and error.
Look for symptoms on a tree that indicates stress. When it comes to watering issues…There’s really only a few signs to look out for. Too much water will show itself (besides soggy soil) with leaves left limp and possibly a change in their color. Too dry, and a browning may occur on the edges or even the entire leaf.
Need your new trees Irrigated to insure success? Give us a call, and we’d be happy to help.
