Honey Locust Seedling - Ask Extension
I have a 3.5 inch tall Honey Locust seedling. I have been keeping the soil very moist. I read that the tree likes to dry out before it is saturated ag...
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Honey Locust Seedling #923662
Asked January 15, 2026, 12:11 PM EST
I have a 3.5 inch tall Honey Locust seedling. I have been keeping the soil very moist. I read that the tree likes to dry out before it is saturated again. I'm sure that I shouldn't do that to this seedling, however, would it be better if I watered it every other day, now that it has three little branches and counting?
Adams County Colorado
Expert Response
Ellen,
Watering container plants is always something of a balancing act. At this point, yes, watering daily is likely excessive unless the plant is very hot and dry. Essentially you want the soil around the roots to remain moist but not saturated, you want a balance of air and water in that area. So I can't say "yes, water every other day" but rather "water as needed". Stick your finger most of the way into the soil. If the soil is still wet, wait another day. If the soil feels like it is drying you can water. When watering, ensure that you water to saturate the soil and let any excess water drain out of the container.
Hope that helps and let me know if you have additional questions!
Watering container plants is always something of a balancing act. At this point, yes, watering daily is likely excessive unless the plant is very hot and dry. Essentially you want the soil around the roots to remain moist but not saturated, you want a balance of air and water in that area. So I can't say "yes, water every other day" but rather "water as needed". Stick your finger most of the way into the soil. If the soil is still wet, wait another day. If the soil feels like it is drying you can water. When watering, ensure that you water to saturate the soil and let any excess water drain out of the container.
Hope that helps and let me know if you have additional questions!
