Quality Tree Service, Inc.

           Proper Watering Practices

      "Example of a tree with improper watering practices"

We live in such an arid climate that even native species of trees require some additional watering.  Both young and mature trees require more than what Mother Nature can provide.  Trees planted in confided spaces, such as, courtyard or backyards, should be watered slowly and deeply to encourage the roots to dive down under the surface.  This practice of deep watering can reduce the risk of the trees roots damaging sidewalks, driveway, lifting walls or cracking the properties foundation.  Native desert trees have aggressive root systems and it doesn’t take long for them to do some very extensive damages.  Deep watering during the dry months of the year can also reduce unnecessary stress to the tree which can attract insects and other pest which will reduce the trees life span.  Watering correctly can also promote structural integrity but giving the tree a strong base for balance as it grows.

If you have your trees on a drip system it should be evaluated every year for effectiveness.  The drip system may have been installed when the tree was planted but 2 or 3 years later the drip needs to be moved out to the current canopy of the tree.  The water needs to reach the end of the roots and not the trunk of the tree.  You should be able to indentify where the roots reach by looking at the canopy of the tree.  If the roots don’t reach out to the edge of the canopy (or tips of branches) the tree would fall over.  Watering that the trunk of the tree can cause the roots to grow in circles and eventually cause the tree to fall over. 

We recommend soaker hoses on a slow drip, out to the canopy of the tree, some times over night for about 8 hours.  All trees are different and should be reviewed for proper watering techniques so call us for a free estimate and education today!

When shopping for a new tree do some research before you plant!

• Type of tree
  1. Mesquite, Palo Verde, Grapefruit, etc.
• Size of tree at full maturity
  1. Not only can the canopy of the tree expand to very large sizes, but especially in desert trees surface roots can expand and be very destructive if planted too close to infrastructures.  Property walls, patios, pools and house foundations are commonly damaged by powerful surface root looking for water.
• Expectation of tree
  1. Looking for shade, privacy or something delicious to eat
• Care plan
  1. Budget for proper pruning
  2. Learn how to successfully water your tree
  3. Prepare and test the soil to ensure the best nutrients for your tree and learn how to fertilize
  4. Watch for dangerous insects that could destroy the tree

Are you prepared to take care of a tree with thorns like this Argentine Mesquite tree?

BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS

Example of a diamond cut head on a Date Palm Tree