A major reason LEAF plants native tree species is because they are well-adapted to local climate and soil conditions, meaning they are typically hardier than non-native trees and require less maintenance over time. However, since our trees are grown in nurseries before being transplanted, their root balls are usually restricted and less developed in comparison to trees that grow in the wild. The smaller root mass, combined with the shock from transplant means that the trees we plant in urban spaces cannot rely on rainwater alone to help them to maturity. Regular watering is crucial for these young trees to establish, so they need your help!
On average, young trees should be watered twice per week using approximately six gallons of water each time. That is the equivalent of using three full watering cans twice per week or using a hose with no nozzle on a very slow trickle for approximately 15 minutes twice per week. Avoid using a sprinkler to water your tree because overhead watering causes wet foliage, which can lead to fungal disease and rot.
How can you tell if your tree needs water? Stick your finger deep into the soil underneath the mulch to see what it feels like. If the soil feels soft and damp, your tree likely doesn’t need additional water for another day or two. However, if the soil feels hard and dry, it is time to break out those watering cans and give some water to your thirsty tree. Rainy days do not always mean the tree has received sufficient water, so it is always a good idea to manually check the soil conditions before watering.
Here are some additional measures you can take to ensure your tree is getting the appropriate levels of water:
- Add organic, undyed mulch in a donut shape around the base of the tree. Make sure that no mulch is touching the trunk, as this can promote moisture build-up and rot.
- Remove any weeds that pop up in the area around the base of the tree to reduce competition for water.
- If you will be away and are unable to water for a few days, ask a neighbor or friend to stop by and water your tree for you.
These simple watering tips will help ensure your young tree remains healthy and grows to its full potential! Want more advice on how to care for your young tree? Learn more Tree Care tips or consider booking a consultation with LEAF today to get help planting your next tree!
Sarah G is the Residential Planting Programs Field Assistant at LEAF.
LEAF offers a subsidized Backyard Tree Planting Program for private property. The program is supported by the City of Toronto, the Regional Municipality of York, the City of Markham, the Town of Newmarket, the Regional Municipality of Durham, the Town of Ajax, the Township of Brock, the Municipality of Clarington, the City of Oshawa, the City of Pickering, the Township of Scugog, the Town of Whitby, Ontario Power Generation and Ontario Trillium Foundation.