Watering Established Trees and Shrubs
Mature trees and shrubs are valuable assets in any landscape, providing shade, beauty, and ecological benefits. However, even established plants require proper watering to maintain their health, especially during periods of drought.
Understanding Water Needs
While established trees and shrubs are more drought-tolerant than newly planted ones, they still benefit from supplemental watering during dry spells. Neglecting their moisture needs can lead to stress, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Watering Guidelines
• Trees (3–5 years in place): Deeply water every 2–3 weeks during dry periods.
• Trees (5+ years in place): Soak the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches, extending beyond the drip line, every 3–4 weeks if rainfall is insufficient.
• Shrubs: Water to a depth of 8–12 inches every couple of weeks.
Use a rain gauge to monitor natural precipitation and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Effective Watering Techniques
• Apply water directly to the soil surface using methods like soaker hoses or a slow trickle from a garden hose.
• Avoid watering at the base of the trunk; instead, focus on the area beneath and beyond the canopy, where absorbing roots are located.
• For evergreens, remember that roots may extend up to twice the height of the tree, so water accordingly.
Mulching and Seasonal Care
• Extend mulch rings around trees to cover surface roots and reduce competition from grass.
• Before the ground freezes in fall, thoroughly soak the soil around trees and shrubs.
• During dry winters, water during mid-winter thaws when the ground isn’t frozen, especially for evergreens.
Following these practices helps ensure the longevity and vitality of your landscape’s trees and shrubs throughout the year. For more information, refer to the Kansas State University publication Watering Established Trees and Shrubs (MF-2801), available at: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2801.pdf
Feel free to call or stop by your local Extension office for personalized advice and additional resources.