Watering correctly during the first 90 days is the single most important factor in bare root tree success.

Week 1 — Establish Moisture

Water immediately after planting

Soak the entire root zone

Keep soil consistently moist, not soggy

Weeks 2–4 — Encourage Root Expansion

Water deeply every 3–5 days

Adjust for rainfall

Avoid shallow daily watering

Months 2–3 — Build Independence

Reduce frequency

Increase depth

Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings

Signs of Proper Watering

Leaves remain firm

No standing water

Soil is moist below the surface

Long-Term Benefits

Proper early watering:

Reduces transplant shock

Encourages deep roots

Improves drought tolerance

Start your trees right with bare root stock from BigBareRootTrees.com.