How often should newly planted trees be watered in their initial stages?

Newly planted trees require a consistent watering regimen that emphasizes depth and infrequency during their initial stages. This approach encourages the roots to grow deep into the soil, which fosters stronger overall tree health and resilience.

When watering deeply, the goal is to ensure that water penetrates the soil to a sufficient depth where the roots can access it, rather than just moistening the surface. Frequent light watering can cause the roots to remain shallow, making the tree more vulnerable to drought and other stressors. The infrequency of the watering allows the tree to adapt to its environment and encourages deeper root growth, which is crucial for long-term stability and durability.

While daily watering might seem nurturing, it often leads to overwatering and can suffocate the roots, whereas weekly watering may not sufficiently penetrate the soil depths needed for healthy root development. Relying solely on rainfall does not provide a controlled watering regimen and can result in either inadequate or excessive watering depending on the weather. Hence, the practice of watering deeply and infrequently stands out as the best method to support a newly planted tree's establishment.