Question about watering trees
- Thread starter JimFit
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There are many complexities and special cases with tree irrigation. Let's start with some generalities.
In general you should water a tree relatively deeply and infrequently compared to other plants.
In most cases the majority of a tree roots that uptake water are in the first 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm.).
Mulching a tree will reduce direct soil evaporation and increase use of water by plants and other soil organisms.
Avoid gimmicks such a watering tubes and the like. The majority of water that percolates into the soil from the surface will be a benefit to the tree and surrounding soil. However do take steps to avoid water runoff. Mulch can help with this as well.
In general you should water a tree relatively deeply and infrequently compared to other plants.
In most cases the majority of a tree roots that uptake water are in the first 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm.).
Mulching a tree will reduce direct soil evaporation and increase use of water by plants and other soil organisms.
Avoid gimmicks such a watering tubes and the like. The majority of water that percolates into the soil from the surface will be a benefit to the tree and surrounding soil. However do take steps to avoid water runoff. Mulch can help with this as well.
Thank you very much, i have another question, how tall trees (like eucalyptus) find water inside the ground? I mean, how deep is the "free" water? and how to find the moisture of the ground 2 meters deep? How to know that there is moisture down there?
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Many trees do have some roots that go deeper. These are older, established trees, and the ultimate depth can still vary greatly.
Very deep roots occur more commonly with certain species and in certain climates and soils, usually drier climates and deeper soils.
Most of the time, trees with deep roots will be accessing water from the local water table and will no longer require irrigation. I suppose that could change due to climate change and severe droughts, but then there won't always be irrigation water available anyway.
Very deep roots occur more commonly with certain species and in certain climates and soils, usually drier climates and deeper soils.
Most of the time, trees with deep roots will be accessing water from the local water table and will no longer require irrigation. I suppose that could change due to climate change and severe droughts, but then there won't always be irrigation water available anyway.