🌱 Watering: The Cornerstone of Tree Establishment
- Consistent and appropriate watering is vital, especially during the first two years:
- Initial Watering: Right after planting, water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
- First Few Weeks: Water daily for the first 1–2 weeks to keep the root ball moist.
- Following Months: Gradually reduce frequency to every 2–3 days for the next 3–12 weeks, then weekly until roots establish.
- Amount: Apply 10–15 gallons of water per session, ensuring deep soil penetration.
- Method: Use a slow drip system that was supplied with your tree or a 5-gallon bucket with holes to allow water to seep slowly into the soil.
- Monitoring: Check soil moisture by digging a few inches below the surface; water when the soil feels dry.
- Overwatering can be as detrimental as underwatering. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
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