Wondering how and when to water your trees as the weather starts heating up? Our popular Weekly Watering Alerts are back to help residents in the DC area ensure their trees get the water they need for the hot summer months!
While it’s unseasonably cold this week, warmer temperatures are around the corner. That’s why now through September 29th, we will issue watering alerts every Monday in our weekly Leaflet newsletter (sign up here!).
Our recommendations are based on local weather patterns, recent rainfall, and forecasts from the National Weather Service.
How Much WATER DO TREES NEED?
We’re glad you asked! Newly planted trees need consistent watering, especially during hot summer months and in droughts. The urban environment with limited soil space, concrete surfaces, and higher temperatures creates challenging conditions for trees in the District.
Remember our motto: “25 to Stay Alive!” Young trees (those planted in the last 1-3 years) need at least 25 gallons of water weekly to establish strong roots and grow into the magnificent shade trees we all love. Without consistent watering during hot, dry periods, these trees face significant stress that can lead to decline or even death.
Street trees are particularly vulnerable, as they often have limited soil space and face additional stressors from urban conditions. Your care for these trees makes a tremendous difference in their survival rates!
This Week’s Alert: Water Your Trees
This week’s watering alert is: Optional Watering. Though the DC Metro region is still experiencing a drought, about 1.50 inches of rain fell last week, and between 1.25 and 1.50 inches is predicted for this week. Depending on the amount of actual precipitation recorded, some trees, especially young or newly planted trees, may still need watering.
Best Ways to Water Trees
If you’re new to tree care (or just need a refresher), here are some quick tips for effective watering:
- Water slowly and deeply to encourage strong root growth
- For newly planted trees, aim for 25 gallons per week
- Apply a proper mulch ring (following the 3-3-3 rule) to retain moisture
- Water early in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation
For more details about how to water trees, visit caseytrees.org/water. Sign up for our Leaflet newsletter, or pledge to water trees, to receive our weekly watering alerts.
