• slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide

Water Trees for their Health and Longevity

Save energy, care for new trees, and conserve water in one easy step.

Proper watering is one of the most important things you can do for the health and longevity of your trees. 

Water new plantings thoroughly and often enough to keep the root ball and soil beyond moist.  Check newly planted trees growing in well-drained soils twice a week and those in heavy clay soils once a week.  Even established trees benefit from thorough watering during drought.  Water thoroughly whenever the top 4 to 6 inches of soil are crumbly and slightly moist.

Make watering easier with this homemade device.  Convert discarded 5 gallon buckets into slow-release watering devices. Drill holes in the bottom of the bucket. Place several buckets beneath the tree canopy. You’ll need to apply 10 gallons of water for each diameter inch of the tree. Fill the buckets with water and let gravity do the work.  You’ll be applying the water to the soil where it is needed and lose less to evaporation and run off. 

A bit more information: Mulching with several inches of woodchips, shredded bark or other organic material will help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve the soil as it breaks down.  Keep the mulch away from the trunk of the tree and replenish as needed.

Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars

Jan. 28, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Past, Present & Future of Mitchell Park and its Conservatory, the Domes  
Register here

Feb. 13 - 15, 2026
PBS Wisconsin
Garden & Green Living EXPO

Madison, WI
More information

Feb. 18, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Plants that Go the Distance
Register here

Feb. 25, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Flowering Houseplants

Register here

Mar. 5, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Start New Plants from Seeds, Cuttings and More

Register here

Mar. 11, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Save Money & Boost Your Growing Success with Bare Root Plants

Register here

Mar. 18, 2026
FREE WEBINAR:
Patio, Deck and Balcony Gardens

Register here

March 26, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Getting Started Growing Vegetable and Flower Gardens
Register here

April 1, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Growing a Bountiful Harvest 
Register here

May 6, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Adding Native Plants
to Any Size Gardening Space

Register here

June 3, 2026
FREE WEBINAR: 
Managing Your Landscape
with Pollinators in Mind

Register here

WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Learn More

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Enter for the chance to win a Milwaukee Domes Alliance membership & merchandise!

ENTER NOW