In general, young trees do not have extensive root systems and need to be watered more frequently than mature established trees. For young trees, you should provide 3-5 gallons of water per week during the dry summer months. Avoid frequent shallow watering, this will lead to a shallow root system. For established trees, water deeply to wet the top 2-3 feet of soil about every two to three weeks (water more frequently during heat waves). Sandy soils need to be watered more frequently than clay soils that can absorb water. Apply the water at the drip line (i.e. the edge of the canopy), and not at the trunk or crown.

A drip system or low trajectory micro-sprinkler can be used, but if you don’t want to invest in an irrigation system, then the 5-gallon bucket method works too. Drip lines and micro sprinklers are easier to monitor or repair compared to a buried pipe. Avoid sprinkler systems that wet the canopy or trunk of the tree, this can lead to diseases. A 3 to 4 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree will help conserve moisture. Make sure the mulch does not sit up against the trunk of the tree, apply it like a doughnut around the base.