Grapevine’s Best Practices for Tree Watering

Most people know that trees need water to grow and thrive. But if it hasn’t rained in a while, how often should property owners water their trees, and what watering methods work best? We’ve put together this helpful guide for tree watering in Grapevine and the North Texas region.

When To Water Trees

Image via Unsplash by Alistair MacRobert

The frequency of tree watering can depend on several factors, including the tree’s age and the weather conditions. After planting new trees, homeowners should water them every other day for the first two weeks. After that, they can begin to water two times per week. During a North Texas summer, Grapevine property owners may need to water their trees three or more times a week. Without proper watering, a tree’s root ball will dry out, and the tree may fail to grow properly.

Established trees require less watering and maintenance, especially during frequent rainfall. The right watering schedule can vary, but generally, homeowners should water trees when the soil becomes dry. They can check this by digging a small hole about 6 to 9 inches in depth to feel the soil. If it’s dry, the tree likely needs water. During periods of Texas drought and extreme heat, it’s a good idea to check the soil frequently to keep it moist.

Best Practices for Tree Watering in Grapevine

When watering trees, Grapevine property owners can follow some best practices for proper care and maintenance. For optimal watering, homeowners should use a hose that extends to the base of the tree. With the hose at a slow trickle, they should allow the water to saturate the tree’s root area. This process can take about 30 minutes for new trees or a few hours for mature trees.

A soaker hose can also be an effective way to water trees. Homeowners can place a soaker hose at the base of the tree and use it for about an hour at a time until the water absorbs 6 to 8 inches into the ground.

While a sprinkler can be a convenient way to water trees, it’s important to make sure it’s soaking the root area. The University of Minnesota Extension suggests following these tips when using a sprinkler for tree watering:

• Place containers, such as cake pans, around the tree to measure the water.
• Once the sprinkler starts, wait until there’s at least 1 inch of water in the containers. Note how long this process took.
• Two hours later, feel the soil at least 6 inches below the ground. If it’s moist, the sprinkler was sufficient.
• If the soil is dry, repeat the process until the containers have added another half-inch of water. Continue to check the soil until it’s moist.
• Record how long the irrigation process took and water for this amount of time moving forward.

Tree watering can be a delicate balancing act. Both overwatering and underwatering trees can have harmful effects. In Grapevine, homeowners who aren’t sure about tree watering schedules can contact TreeNewal. We have a qualified team of certified arborists who can offer insights into the correct watering schedule, as well as tree nutrition and fertilization. For more information, contact us online or call us at 817-329-2450.