Newly established trees need to be watered regularly to ensure their long term health. And, if there's a drought, even mature trees need to be watered. Mulching helps to retain the water in the soil, reduces runoff and adds important nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.
Title: Tree Care Tips & Techniques
Sponsoring Organization: Arbor Day Foundation
Description: Scroll down to “Tree Watering” to learn how and when to water trees, especially during the first two years.
Title: Ask an Arborist: How Do I Know My Trees Needs Water?
Sponsoring Organization:: Arbor Day Foundation
Description: Helpful 3½-minute video on how to water your tree.
Title: Tree Care Tips and Techniques
Sponsoring Organization: Arbor Day Foundation
Description: Scroll down to “Mulching” to learn how to apply mulch around the base of your tree and how mulch benefits your tree by keeping weeds down, slowing moisture loss, and keeping mowers away from the trunk and roots.
Title: Ask an Arborist: Why Do We Mulch?
Sponsoring Organization: Arbor Day Foundation
Description: Excellent 4-minute video explaining mulch application. How much mulch? What type of mulch? What is “volcano mulching” and how can I avoid it? When should I renew mulch around an established tree?