Do Mature Trees Need Watering in Sherborn, MA?

Do mature trees need watering? Older trees certainly don’t need as much water as a newly planted tree requires, but they can benefit from a watering schedule.

Our expert tree service in Sherborn, MA, can give you advice on the best way to water your property’s trees. Learn more about why regular watering is vital for mature trees to help them with drought resistance.

How To Decide if Your Mature Trees Need Water

If you water your lawn with sprinklers regularly, you might not think you need to water your tree separately. However, lawn watering typically doesn’t generate enough water for root absorption in an older tree with deep roots. Our arborists have some techniques to determine whether your mature trees are receiving enough water.

Measuring Soil Dampness

Our experts can test the soil at your property with a meter to measure soil moisture. When the soil is too dry, we can recommend a watering schedule.

Understanding Your Species of Mature Tree

Fully understanding tree watering requirements often depends on the type of tree you have. A deciduous tree that drops its leaves in the autumn needs less water in the dormant growing season. An evergreen tree can benefit from seasonal watering year-round when temperatures climb above freezing.

Inspecting the Tree

Our experts can inspect your mature tree for signs of moisture deficiency. When the leaves show curling, wilting, or yellowing before autumn, the tree might need watering.

Waiting until these signs appear could put your tree’s health in jeopardy. Letting our arborists set up a regular watering schedule for your mature tree helps you avoid this situation.

How To Water a Mature Tree Properly

Do mature trees need watering and how can you do it correctly? The best option is to use a soaker hose. It will deliver the water slowly, allowing it to soak into the soil and benefit the tree’s roots. 

You should set up the soaker hose well away from the trunk. Placing too much water near the trunk could lead to rot. 

Instead, encircle the tree with the soaker hose at the drip line. This is the line on the ground that matches the edges of the tree’s canopy overhead. The roots of a mature tree will grow outward toward the drip line and beyond it.

Continue watering until the soil is wet six inches below the ground. Use a screwdriver to measure the depth of the muddy soil. Watering this way once a month should meet the needs of most mature trees.

Call Brooke Tree Service for Help With All Your Tree Care Needs

Do mature trees need watering beyond the rain we receive? Deep watering once a month can provide the tree hydration it needs to thrive. If you’re afraid you’re overwatering, our expert arborists at Brooke Tree Service can test your soil.

For help with services like tree cabling and bracing or trimming dead branches, contact our experts. Call us today at (508) 613-5044 to schedule an appointment. We offer 24/7 service for emergencies in the Sherborn, MA, region.