How to Water a Tree Like a Professional!
Watering a Newly Planted Tree
Above tables sourced from CSU Extension. https://extension.colostate.edu/resource/care-of-recently-planted-trees/
Watering An Established Tree
The irrigation prescription for established trees is:
- 10 gal/diameter inch of trunk (For example: a tree with a DBH of 4″ would require 40 gallons of water per week during the growing season.)
- Water EVERY WEEK during growing season
- During Dormant Season 10gal/diameter inch, watering monthly rather than weekly.
- Evergreen trees can use more during the winter, due to keeping their leaves on, and experiencing warmer winters.
🍂 Dormant Season Watering ❄️
During Colorado winters lacking frequent moisture:
- Water newly planted trees monthly
- Water on sunny days ☀️
- Water when it is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit
- Water when the ground is not frozen.
- Water early in the day, to allow water to soak into the ground before it freezes at night.
- These guidelines apply to established trees as well, with the increased rate of irrigation at 10 gal/diameter inch of the trunk.
Refer to CSU Extension resource https://extension.colostate.edu/resource/fall-and-winter-watering-of-plants-and-trees/ for additional information.
What to Use for the BEST Application Method?
Sprinkler application is more efficient at controlling the rate of application for best infiltration and avoids creating a sealed soil surface and run-off conditions.
Use:
- A fountain type sprinkler
- Frog eye sprinkler
- Lawn sprinkler system
