The short answer is…yes. “Now that summer is in full swing, watering your trees properly is one of the best ways to keep them healthy and stress-free.” (Arbor Day Foundation)

“In many situations, prolonged drought conditions weaken trees and they become more susceptible to pests that normally may not invade a healthy tree. Insects and diseases enter, weaken, and can kill all or part of the tree, depending on how badly the tree is predisposed to attack in this declining condition.”(Purdue Extension)

“Younger trees generally require more frequent watering than mature trees because their root system isn’t established, as a result they use more energy establishing a root system and require more water. In the first couple years of your tree’s life it isn’t uncommon to water twice a week. But as the tree matures, how you water it will change. Since roots grow deep, trees prefer a deep watering less often versus watering frequently and only wetting the surface of the soil. That is why drip systems are the preferred method in the industry, because it allows water to slowly trickle down into the soil and reach deep into the roots, versus a hose that may only wet the surface of the soil and neglect the roots.” (Arbor Day Foundation)

Good news is you don’t have to worry as much about your older trees. “Mature Trees are best left to nature. After the first two years of your tree’s life it will be able to withstand a wider range of water conditions, including on its own because it has a proper root structure. Continue to monitor your tree to ensure it stays healthy. If you’re ever questioning the health of your tree it’s always a great idea to consult with a local certified arborist who can tell you more about your tree’s health.”(Arbor Day Foundation)

Browning Tree Service is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/fnr/fnr-483-w.pdf

https://arbordayblog.org/treecare/how-to-properly-water-your-trees/

https://arbordayblog.org/askanarborist/ask-arborist-know-trees-need-water/