Watering Tips for Healthy Trees Year Round

Watering Tips for Healthy Trees Year-Round

Living in Fort Worth, TX, or nearby areas like Tarrant County, Parker County, Weatherford, Aledo, or Willow Park means dealing with a climate that’s tough on trees. Scorching summers, sporadic rainfall, and chilly winters can leave your trees thirsty if you’re not careful. Proper watering is key to keeping them healthy year-round, and at Ballard Tree Service, with over 75 years of experience caring for North Texas trees, we’ve got the know-how to help. Here are some practical watering tips to ensure your trees thrive no matter the season.

Understand Your Tree’s Needs

Not all trees are the same. Young trees in Aledo or Willow Park, for example, need more frequent watering to establish roots, while mature oaks in Tarrant County can often get by with less. A good rule of thumb? Check the soil 2-3 inches deep near the tree—if it’s dry, it’s time to water. New trees might need 5-10 gallons weekly, while established ones may only need a deep soak every few weeks during dry spells.

Water Deeply, Not Often

Shallow watering leads to weak roots. In Fort Worth’s hot summers, aim for slow, deep watering that reaches 12-18 inches into the soil. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation around the tree’s drip line—the area under the outer edge of the branches—where roots soak up the most water. This encourages strong, deep root systems, which is crucial for trees facing Parker County’s windy storms or Azle’s clay-heavy soils.

Time It Right

Watering in the early morning is best, especially in Weatherford where summer heat can evaporate moisture fast. Morning sessions let water soak in before the sun peaks, reducing waste and keeping leaves dry to avoid fungal issues. Avoid watering at night—lingering moisture can invite disease, a common concern in North Texas’s humid spells.

Adjust by Season

North Texas weather keeps you on your toes, so tweak your watering schedule accordingly. In spring and fall, rainfall might do the trick for trees in Tarrant County, but check the soil to be sure. Summer calls for extra attention—trees in Fort Worth or Aledo may need weekly watering during droughts. In winter, cut back but don’t stop entirely; a monthly deep soak keeps roots alive, especially for evergreens in Willow Park.

Watch for Signs of Trouble

Overwatering is just as bad as underwatering. Yellowing leaves, soggy soil, or a musty smell near the base could mean too much water, while wilting, brittle leaves signal thirst. Trees in Parker County’s sandy patches might dry out faster, while Fort Worth’s clay holds moisture longer. Pay attention, and adjust as needed to keep your trees in top shape.

Conserve Water Wisely

With water restrictions popping up in Fort Worth and beyond, efficiency matters. Mulch around your trees to lock in moisture, and consider drought-tolerant species if you’re planting new ones in Weatherford or Azle. Need advice on what works best? Ballard Tree Service has been guiding homeowners for over seven decades—we’re happy to share tips tailored to your property with a free estimate.

Why Watering Matters Here

Healthy trees don’t just look good—they stand up to North Texas challenges like storms, pests, and heat. Proper watering keeps roots strong, reducing the risk of fallen limbs in Weatherford or cracked trunks in Aledo. It’s an investment in your property’s safety and beauty, and it starts with a little know-how.

Let Ballard Tree Service Help

With 75+ years of expertise, Ballard Tree Service knows what keeps trees thriving in Fort Worth, Tarrant County, and beyond. Our team can recommend the perfect watering plan for your trees, ensuring they stay healthy year-round. Plus, our customer-first approach means you’ll get friendly, expert advice every time. Call us at 817-270-8202 for a free estimate, or visit BallardTreeService.org to learn more!