Healthy trees slow stormwater runoff, allowing time for water to soak in and recharge aquifers and the water table. When you water your trees, water smart! An efficient way to water established trees (5+ years) is to place a soaker hose around the tree at the dripline once a month during summer. Water until the soil is saturated 6 inches deep (use a spade to check). This may take 2 to 6 hours. Newly planted trees should receive 10 to 15 gallons of water close to, but not right at, the trunk at least every 7 to 10 days. The best time to water is late evening or very early morning.
Check out the Texas Water Development Board’s home watering guide
