We hate to break it to you, but your sprinkler system just isn't going to cut it.
When it comes to watering your trees, your lawn sprinkler just isn’t enough. Trees – especially young or stressed ones – have deeper needs, quite literally. Sprinklers are designed for shallow-rooted turf, providing short bursts of moisture at the surface. But trees rely on deep, consistent watering to support their extensive root systems and long-term health. If you’re relying solely on your sprinkler system to water your trees, they might be surviving – but they’re certainly not thriving.
Why Trees Need More Than a Sprinkler
Unlike grass, trees require water that penetrates deep into the soil to reach their roots, which often extend far beyond the drip line of the canopy. Sprinklers may only wet the top inch or two of soil, which quickly evaporates – especially in hot or windy conditions. This shallow watering encourages surface roots and leaves trees vulnerable to drought, pests, and disease.
Healthy trees that are properly watered grow stronger, resist pests more effectively, and live longer. Deep watering is especially critical during periods of drought, high temperatures, or when your tree is still getting established.
Young and Stressed Trees: Watering is Critical
If your tree is less than five years old or showing signs of stress (wilting, browning leaves, premature leaf drop, etc.), it needs extra care. Young trees are still developing their root systems and are far more vulnerable to fluctuations in water availability.
Here’s how much water they need:
- Young trees (0–5 years): About 5–10 gallons of water per week, depending on weather conditions and soil type.
- Stressed or recovering trees: Slightly more frequent watering, with careful attention to soil moisture levels.
This water should be applied slowly and deeply to ensure it soaks into the soil rather than running off the surface.
Watering Method 1: The Slow-Trickle Technique
Use a garden hose on a slow trickle:
- Place the hose near the base of the tree, a few feet out from the trunk (not right up against it).
- Turn the water on to a slow trickle, just enough that the water isn’t pooling or running off.
- Let it run for 30–45 minutes (or until the area is thoroughly soaked), then move the hose to another spot around the base.
- Repeat weekly during dry weather, or more frequently for young or stressed trees.
Watering Method 2: The 5-Gallon Bucket Technique
Fill a 5-gallon bucket of water and let it drain (a hack we learned from our friends at Great Plains Nursery):
- Grab a 5-gallon bucket and drill a small hole on the side at the bottom.
- Place the bucket in position near the tree, then fill it with water.
- Let it drain near the tree for a few minutes, then move the bucket to another spot around the base.
- Repeat weekly during dry weather, or more frequently for young or stressed trees.
Final Tips
- Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
- Mulch around the base of the tree (2–4 inches deep, but not touching the trunk) to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. (Mulch tips can be found here).
- Check soil moisture by sticking your finger or a screwdriver into the soil. If it’s dry more than a couple inches down, it’s time to water.
By going beyond the sprinkler and committing to deep, slow watering, you’re giving your trees the foundation they need to flourish. They’ll thank you with stronger growth, healthier canopies, and resilience through the changing seasons.
