As Utah transitions into cooler months, homeowners often turn their attention away from watering, believing that their landscapes can fend for themselves until spring. However, experts urge residents to consider one last round of deep watering for their trees before the ground freezes.

“Trees are the most valuable plants in a landscape and should be prioritized for irrigation,” emphasizes Shital Poudyal, an ornamental horticulture specialist with Utah State University Extension. Unlike grass, which can bounce back quickly from drought, trees require consistent and deep watering to thrive. This practice not only supports their health but also encourages robust root systems that help them withstand harsh conditions, including winds and drought.

To ensure that your trees receive the hydration they need, Poudyal recommends several key strategies:

1. Utilize Point Irrigation: Consider methods like drip irrigation or a slow-running hose to deliver water directly to the root zone.

2. Avoid Short, Frequent Watering: Shallow watering sessions only moisten the surface soil, promoting weak, shallow root growth. If you must use this method, always follow up with longer, deeper watering sessions.

3. Adjust Emitter Flow Rates: Ensure that emitters are appropriately set based on the soil type and the size of your trees.

4. Position Emitters Correctly: Place drip emitters away from the trunk to prevent disease and encourage healthy growth.

5. Seasonal Adjustments: Modify your irrigation frequency as temperatures drop, reducing the amount of water as trees enter dormancy.

As a general guideline, Poudyal suggests providing 10 to 12 gallons of water for every inch of trunk diameter. “The average garden hose delivers about 13 gallons per minute, but it’s best to water slowly to prevent runoff and ensure deep absorption,” he explains.

To assist homeowners in determining the right amount of water for their trees, USU Extension has created an irrigation calculator. This user-friendly tool considers factors such as tree canopy size, evapotranspiration rates, and soil type to calculate the exact water requirements.

“Using the irrigation calculator can help ensure that your trees receive adequate moisture without wasting water,” says Poudyal.

For those looking for detailed guidance on how to best care for their landscape trees this fall, the Landscape Irrigation Calculator for Utah is available online.

For further information or specific questions, Poudyal can be contacted via email at shital.poudyal@usu.edu.

As winter approaches, remember: a little extra care for your trees now can lead to a healthier, more resilient landscape come spring.