Summer Tree Care: Deep Root Watering
Ensuring the health of trees on commercial properties is vital, not only for the aesthetic appeal they provide but also for the environmental benefits they bring. One powerful method to maintain tree health is deep root watering. For commercial spaces, where large trees often anchor the landscape, understanding and implementing this practice can lead to healthier, more resilient trees despite challenging urban or dry environments.
What Is Deep Root Watering?
Deep Root Watering is a specialized irrigation technique designed to deliver water directly to a tree’s root zone, which is typically 12 to 18 inches below the surface. Unlike conventional surface-level watering, which often only moistens the top layer of soil, Deep Root Watering ensures that water reaches the feeder roots responsible for nutrient and water absorption.
This method mimics how trees naturally absorb water and nutrients in forests, where rainfall penetrates deep into the ground. For urban or commercial properties, where compacted soils and surface runoff are common issues, deep watering offers an effective solution to promote healthier root systems.
Why Is Deep Root Watering Important?
Deep Root Watering offers several advantages that contribute to the long-term health and viability of trees on commercial properties.
Fosters Stronger Root Systems
When water is consistently delivered into the deeper layers of soil, tree roots grow further down to access moisture. This encourages a more extensive and resilient root system that can better anchor the tree, resist drought conditions, and absorb nutrients.
Reduces Stress During Drought
Surface watering often evaporates quickly, particularly during hot summer months, leading to drought stress for trees. Deep Root Watering ensures consistent moisture at depths where it is retained longer, preventing damage like wilting or browning foliage.
Minimizes Surface Soil Compaction
Overwatering at the soil’s surface can lead to soil compaction, which suffocates roots and prevents them from accessing the air and nutrients they need. Deep watering avoids these issues by bypassing the surface and targeting the root zone.
Saves Water
By concentrating water delivery directly where it’s needed, deep root watering is far more efficient than traditional methods. This is particularly advantageous for large-scale commercial properties aiming to reduce water waste.
Enhances Tree Longevity
Healthy trees contribute to increased property value, shade, energy savings, and air quality improvement. Deep Root Watering plays a significant role in keeping trees healthy, vibrant, and long-lived.
How Arborists Perform Deep Root Watering
Deep Root Watering for commercial properties typically requires expertise and professional equipment to ensure its success. Here’s a step-by-step look at how arborists conduct this method efficiently.
Assess the Tree’s Needs
Arborists begin by evaluating the tree species, size, soil type, and environmental conditions. These variables help determine the appropriate watering frequency and amount.
Identify the Drip Line
The drip line is the perimeter directly underneath a tree’s canopy where water naturally drips from leaves. This is where most feeder roots are located and is the optimal area for deep watering.
Use Specialized Equipment
Using tools like deep root watering rods, arborists insert water directly into the soil to depths of up to 18 inches. This ensures that the water bypasses the dry and compacted surface soil.
Apply the Right Amount of Water
The rule of thumb is to provide about 10 gallons of water per inch of the tree trunk’s diameter. For instance, a tree with a 5-inch diameter trunk would require 50 gallons of water delivered slowly and steadily to prevent runoff.
Monitor Soil Moisture
Arborists regularly check soil moisture levels to ensure that the root zone remains hydrated without becoming oversaturated.
Consider Additions Like Mulch
Applying mulch around the tree base helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, further enhancing the benefits of deep watering. However, mulch should be kept a few inches away from the trunk to avoid rot.
Why July Is a Crucial Month for Deep Root Watering
If you’ve been putting off Deep Root Watering on your commercial property, July is the perfect time to act. Here’s why timing matters.
The Summer Heat Is Coming
Early July marks the onset of warm temperatures, which increase evaporation rates and place added stress on trees. Deep Root Watering ensures they are well-prepared to retain moisture as the heat intensifies in July and August.
Newly Planted Trees Need Support
Younger trees with less developed root systems are especially vulnerable during their first few summers. July offers the opportunity to provide deep hydration, ensuring these trees establish strong, healthy roots.
Prevent Drought Stress
July often brings extended dry spells, depending on your region. Deep watering during this time can prevent visible drought stress, such as wilting or prematurely browning leaves.
Early Prevention Is Key
By addressing the tree’s hydration needs in July, you set them up for success during the harsh summer months. Proactive care is always more effective and less costly than reactive measures.
Nurture Your Trees and Your Property Value
Deep Root Watering is an essential practice for ensuring the health, strength, and beauty of the trees on your commercial property. By fostering deeper roots, reducing drought stress, and conserving water, this method contributes to both the longevity of your trees and the overall value of your commercial space.
Make July the month to start prioritizing your trees’ health with professional deep root watering services. Your trees (and property) will thank you.
For personalized guidance or to schedule deep root watering for your commercial property, contact our team of arborists today.
Arbor MD Tree Care, Inc. prides itself in providing passionate, professional and expert tree care. Our certified arborists and specialized crews in SF Bay Area, Sacramento and Greater Seattle area that care for trees on commercial properties, HOA properties, corporate campus landscapes and more. Your trees remain healthy which helps to keep property safe and your property value high. Contact us today for help with your commercial treescapes.