Tree Care

Tips on Tree Watering from LOID and University of Idaho Extension Office

When to Plant
The ideal time to plant trees is the fall after leaf drop or early spring before bud break.  This allows plants to establish roots in the new location before spring rains and summer heat stimulate new top growth.  However, trees properly cared for from a nursery can be planted throughout the growing season.

Tips on Tree Watering

Water deeply and slowly.  Apply water so the soil is moist in the critical root zone to a depth of 12 inches.

Mulch Like Crazy.  Apply a layer of mulch around the trees to conserve soil moisture.

When to water.  During the fall and winter months (October to March), water 1 or 2 times per month when the outside temperature is above 40 degrees. In the spring and summer (April to September), water small trees weekly, medium trees 3 times per month, and large trees 2 times per month.

How Much Water.  To assure survival of the tree, apply 10 gallons of water for each inch of the tree’s diameter.  For example, a two-inch diameter tree will need 20 gallons per watering.