A newly planted tree gets a thorough soaking at planting, then its root ball is checked every few days for the first few weeks and watered whenever the top few inches feel dry. After that, a deep watering about once a week carries it through the first growing season.

Why does a just planted tree dry out so quickly?

Because its roots are still packed inside the root ball, which often dries faster than the surrounding soil. Until new roots grow out into the planting hole, the tree can only draw on that small, quick drying volume.

How is a new tree watered in its first weeks?

Slowly and deeply, over the root ball and the loosened backfill around it, whenever the top few inches are dry. Each watering uses about 10 gallons per inch of trunk diameter and soaks 12 to 18 inches down, with more frequent checks in sandy soil.

When does a newly planted tree move to weekly watering?

After the first few weeks, once the root ball no longer dries out between checks. To deliver a slow, deep weekly soak without standing over a hose, a Treegator Original Slow Release Watering Bag is zipped around the trunk and filled once a week for most new plantings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a root ball checked for dryness?

By pressing a finger a few inches into the root ball itself, not just the soil around it, since the two can dry at different rates.

Can a new tree be watered every day?

Not usually. Brief daily watering wets only the top few inches, and a root ball kept constantly wet can stay soggy.

Does a bare root tree need different watering?

Mostly before planting. Its roots are kept moist until planting, and afterward it follows the same schedule.

Does a tree planted in fall still need weekly watering?

Yes, in dry weather, until the ground freezes.