Summer in Pennsylvania and New Jersey isn't just hot — it's "feels-like-you're-standing-in-an-oven" hot.

Your trees feel it, too. And while everyone knows to "water their trees," very few actually know how to do it right.

Spoiler: Flicking a hose at the trunk for 30 seconds isn't "watering." It's barely enough for a thirsty squirrel.

If you want your trees to survive (and actually thrive) during the brutal summer months, you need to learn the proper way to water. Let's break it down before your trees turn into sad, crispy lawn ornaments.

Why Proper Watering Matters More in Summer

Heat, humidity, drought, and compacted soil tag-team to make life miserable for trees during summer. When trees get stressed, they:

• Grow slower

• Drop leaves early

• Become easy targets for pests and disease

• Start dying from the inside out (you usually notice when it's too late)

Good watering habits can mean the difference between a lush canopy and a tree that looks like it gave up on life halfway through July.

The Wrong Ways People Water Trees (And Why They Fail)

1. Surface Sprinkling

Sprinklers are great for grass. For trees? Not so much.

• Surface water evaporates fast.

• Shallow roots develop instead of deep, strong ones.

• Trees stay thirsty because water never reaches where it matters.

2. Daily "Quick" Waterings

More isn't better when it comes to tree watering. Daily shallow watering encourages weak root systems that can't survive real drought conditions.

Think deep and infrequent, not shallow and constant.

3. Only Watering the Trunk

Your tree's roots aren't huddled at the trunk like they're at a campfire. They spread out — wide and shallow. Water the entire root zone, not just the base.

How to Water Trees the Right Way This Summer

1. Water Deeply and Infrequently

• Water once or twice a week, depending on rainfall.

• Use a slow, deep soak for 30-60 minutes.

• Goal: Saturate the soil 12-18 inches deep.

Pro Tip: Stick a screwdriver into the soil. If it slides in easily after watering, you're good.

2. Water at the Right Time of Day

• Best time: Early morning (before 9 AM)

• Second-best: Late evening (after 6 PM)

Watering during peak heat just wastes water to evaporation and practically invites fungal problems.

3. Focus on the Root Zone

• Imagine a circle 2-3 times wider than the canopy.

• Water within that circle, not just at the trunk.

Most absorbing roots live in the top 12 inches of soil and spread outward. Water them all, not just the "centerpiece."

4. Use the Right Tools

• Soaker hoses

• Drip irrigation systems

• Deep root watering stakes

These tools deliver water slowly and effectively without flooding or runoff.

5. Mulch (The Right Way)

• 2-4 inches of organic mulch

• Spread in a wide donut shape

• Keep mulch 3-6 inches away from the trunk

Mulch keeps roots cooler, retains moisture, and reduces water needs by up to 50%.

Warning: No mulch volcanoes. You're watering a tree, not trying to create a new mountain range.

How Much Water Do Trees Need?

A good rule of thumb:

• Newly Planted Trees: 10-15 gallons per watering session.

• Young Trees (1-3 years): 10 gallons per inch of trunk diameter.

• Mature Trees: Varies by size and species, but slow deep watering is still key.

If you're guessing, you're probably either under-watering or drowning your tree. Both lead to sad, expensive outcomes.

Signs Your Tree Isn't Getting Enough Water

• Wilting or curled leaves

• Brown leaf edges

• Early leaf drop

• Cracks in soil around the base

• Thin or sparse canopy

If your tree looks like it's waving a little white flag by June, it's time to reassess your watering game.

Bonus: How to Water During Drought Conditions

When Mother Nature goes on strike and it doesn't rain for weeks, here's how to step up:

• Prioritize young and newly planted trees first.

• Deep water once a week — longer soaks are better than daily sprinkles.

• Skip fertilizing — stressed trees can't process extra nutrients.

• Protect root zones with mulch to maximize every drop.

Sometimes "survival mode" watering is the difference between saving your landscape and starting over next year.

Summer Tree Watering FAQs

How long should I water my trees during summer?
Aim for a slow soak lasting 30-60 minutes depending on soil conditions.

Can I use a sprinkler to water my trees?
Technically yes, but it's inefficient. Soaker hoses and drip systems are much better.

Is overwatering trees a real problem?
Absolutely. Too much water suffocates roots and invites disease.

Do mature trees still need watering?
Yes — especially during extended heat or drought periods.

What's the best mulch for tree health?
Natural, organic mulch like wood chips or shredded bark — and always properly placed.

Conclusion: Water Smart, Not Hard

Summer can be brutal, but your trees don’t have to suffer. Water deep, water wide, water smart — and mulch like you mean it.

Good watering practices aren't rocket science. But they are the difference between having a shady, thriving tree and explaining to your neighbors why there's a dead stick in your front yard come September.

Need expert help keeping your trees healthy through summer?
Visit Precision Tree Experts to schedule a consultation today!