Why is it important to keep the entire root zone moist for newly planted trees?

Keeping the entire root zone moist for newly planted trees is essential to encourage deep root development. Newly planted trees need a consistent supply of water to support their ability to establish healthy roots in the soil. When the entire root zone is adequately hydrated, it stimulates the growth of roots, encouraging them to grow deeper into the soil in search of moisture and nutrients. This deep root system increases the stability of the tree and improves its resilience to environmental stressors, such as drought or strong winds, by allowing the tree to access moisture and nutrients from deeper soil layers.

While weed prevention, reduced fertilization needs, and enhanced aesthetics are related to tree maintenance, they do not specifically address the critical role that moisture plays in facilitating deep root growth, making the importance of keeping the root zone moist central to the successful establishment of newly planted trees.