Stay Diligent with Watering New Trees This Summer and Fall

For much of Pennsylvania, July and early August has brought us many days of above average high temperatures, and a lack of precipitation. When it gets hot and dry, we must be diligent in watering newly planted trees to ensure they continue to stay alive and healthy.

A look at precipitation data from the National Weather Service during the past 60 days shows the northern and central parts of Pennsylvania have had below average precipitation. Rainfall deficits in the past 60 days range from about one to five inches.

New York/Pennsylvania 60 Day Precipitation Departures for the period June 12 to August 10, 2020. Source: National Weather Service Middle Atlantic River Forecast Center.

While we may get away with less consistent watering in milder and wetter summers, when precipitation is below average, it is especially important we stick to a routine watering schedule throughout the growing season. A general recommendation is to supply at least 10 gallons a week, applied as a slow drip to allow the water to soak into the soil around the root ball of the tree. With hot and dry weather, it is a good idea to increase the amount of water, and the frequency of watering.

A slow drip of water can be applied using a watering bag like a TreeGator, or a five-gallon bucket with a couple of small holes drilled in the bottom. Alternatively, a garden hose placed at the base of the tree can be left on a slow drip for several hours to provide a slow soaking.

For details on proper watering of newly planted trees, see Making Sure Your Young Shade Trees Survive.