Caring For Young Trees

The first five years are critical for the long-term health of a tree. Proper watering, pruning, and other tree care will ensure a healthy, mature tree and drastically reduce future maintenance costs.

Watering Young Trees

Conserve water and preserve trees by following these “smart watering” guidelines.

1. Deep watering. Young trees require regular watering for good health and disease prevention. Deep watering (see watering instructions below) prevents weak surface roots from forming and encourages the growth of robust roots underground.
2. Check soil moisture once a week 4-6 inches below the surface. Soil should be moist but not wet.
3. Conserve water while preserving trees. Increase watering for trees during drought, while conserving water in other areas of your home and landscape.
4. Watch for signs of drought stress. Are leaves wilting, yellowing, curling or browning at the edges?
5. Use mulch to help conserve moisture. Cover the soil with a 3- to 5-inch layer of mulch starting a few inches from the base of the trunk and extending 1–2 feet from the tree in all directions (creating a circle around the tree).
6. Lawn irrigation does not provide adequate irrigation for trees. Lawn irrigation or light sprinkling for 5 to 10 minutes waters only a few inches of soil and encourages weak surface roots.