How many gallons do I apply per watering?
Due to varying soil drainage rates, a single watering schedule cannot be applied universally. As a general guideline, water with 10 gallons daily when temperatures exceed 95°F. When temperatures are below 95°F, water with 20 gallons per application, adjusting the frequency based on the specific temperature (refer to the chart below for guidance).
| High Temperature (F) | Watering Frequency | Estimated Gallons Per Watering |
| Below 60° | Water Every 4 Days | 20 |
| 60°-79° | Water Every 3 Days | 20 |
| 80°-94° | Water Every Other Day | 20 | 95°+ | Water Daily | 10 |
For optimal results, we recommend conducting soil moisture tests to create a customized watering program. The goal is to achieve ideal soil conditions at the base of the drainage pipe: soft, moist, pliable, and cool to the touch (similar to Play-Doh). This ideal condition should be reached 24 hours after watering when temperatures exceed 95°F and 48 hours after watering when temperatures are below 95°F. If the soil sample is drier than playdoh, then you’re not watering enough. If the soil sample is wetter than playdoh, you’re overwatering. If water accumulates at the bottom of the pipe, it needs to be drained.
How many minutes do I water with a hose or bubbler?
The watering duration depends on the flow rate of your water source. Since flow rates vary between homes and watering methods, we recommend conducting a simple flow rate test.
To determine your flow rate, time how long it takes to fill a 1-gallon container. For example, if it takes 80 seconds to fill 1 gallon, your flow rate is 80 seconds per gallon.
To apply 10 gallons, you would water for 800 seconds (80 seconds/gallon x 10 gallons) or 13 minutes and 20 seconds.
We have created a flow rate calculator to simplify this process.
Can I water the tree with my sprinkler system that waters the lawn?
To ensure optimal tree health, we recommend installing a separate irrigation zone for trees, independent of the lawn or flower bed system. Trees have distinct watering needs compared to shrubs and grass, requiring independent management. Water applied through lawn or flower bed sprinklers will likely be insufficient for the trees' needs.
What are the black drainage pipes for that I see sticking out of the ground?
Drainage pipes are installed to monitor soil moisture at the base of the rootball, helping ensure proper watering. Please avoid watering directly into these pipes as they are solely for monitoring soil moisture. Click here to learn how to collect soil samples and create a watering schedule that's perfect for your trees.
What is the best way to water multiple trees?
Efficient watering of multiple trees can be achieved using bubblers or a drip irrigation system. Drip irrigation systems, such as those offered by Rain Bird, utilize small spray stakes for targeted water delivery.
Do I apply water or fertilizer in the black drainage pipes?
Please avoid applying fertilizer or watering directly into these pipes as they are solely for monitoring soil moisture.
When do I start watering again after it rains?
Soil saturation varies significantly after rain, influenced by rainfall amount, time of year, and soil drainage. After rainfall, we recommend checking soil moisture by collecting samples.
How should the trees be watered when it freezes?
Before significant cold snaps (temperatures below 20°F or extended periods below 32°F), we recommend a thorough watering of the trees. Resume your regular watering schedule as soon as conditions allow.