- Establishment Period:

Establishment time is at least 6 months per every inch caliper of tree:

2" caliper tree = 12 months of monitoring and supplemental watering

3" caliper tree = 18 months of monitoring and supplemental watering

4" caliper tree = 24 months of monitoring and supplemental watering

6" caliper tree = 36 months of monitoring and supplemental watering

The first 6-8 weeks after planting are the most intensive. (Or the first 6-8 weeks of the growing season- after winter-planting). After that, watering frequency can be gradually reduced according to conditions.

The second year the trees will have roots out in the surrounding soil and will be less dependent on supplemental water. However, it is important to continue a watering program. Research has shown that the duration of watering should increase depending on the size of the tree when planted. Larger trees should be monitored and watered, at least occasionally, for a longer period of time after planting. Remember the establishment period is at least 6 months of supplemental watering per every inch of caliper at the time of planting. Use common sense. If there is a drought during the 2nd season after planting then even small trees might be at risk of succumbing to stress.