How to Care for Young Trees in Hot Weather: Summer Tree Watering Tips

There’s no doubt about it—hot, dry weather can be tough on young trees. Whether you’ve recently planted a new tree or have one that’s still settling in, giving it the right care during a heatwave can make all the difference between thriving and merely surviving.

Here at Bowhayes Trees, we know how important it is to keep your trees happy and healthy, especially during the summer months. Below, we’ve put together our easy-to-follow guide for watering and caring for young trees in hot weather.

Why Trees Need a Good Water Supply

Water is absolutely essential for trees—particularly young ones. It plays several vital roles:

• Hydration: Just like us, trees need water to stay hydrated and healthy. Without enough, their cells can’t function properly, leading to wilting and stress.

• Nutrient Transport: Water helps dissolve nutrients in the soil, carrying them through the tree’s roots, trunk, and leaves. Without enough moisture, trees struggle to access the food they need to grow.

• Cooling: Trees naturally cool themselves through a process called transpiration—where moisture evaporates from their leaves. This cools the tree (and even the air around it), but it also means the tree loses water faster during hot weather.

  
  

In summer, young trees lose water much faster than they can absorb it from dry soil—especially before their roots have spread deeply. That's why a regular, deep watering routine is so important to help them survive and thrive.

---

Why Young Trees Need Extra Help in Summer

Newly planted trees haven’t yet developed deep root systems, which means they rely heavily on surface moisture to survive. In hot weather, the top layer of soil dries out quickly—leaving young trees at risk of drought stress, wilting, and even long-term damage.

Signs your tree may be struggling in hot weather:

• Drooping or curling leaves

• Leaves turning brown around the edges

• Early leaf drop

• Slow or stunted growth

---

When to Water Young Trees

Water deeply and consistently, especially during dry spells. A good rule of thumb is to water:

• Every 2-3 days in very hot, dry weather (especially for trees planted this season)

• Once a week in mild conditions, gradually reducing as the tree becomes established (usually after the first two years)

  
  

Expert Tip: Early morning or late evening is best for watering—this reduces evaporation and gives your tree time to absorb moisture before the heat of the day.

---

How Much Water Does My Tree Need?

It’s not about watering little and often—it’s about watering deeply. Aim to soak the soil thoroughly to encourage roots to grow downwards, where the soil stays moist for longer.

Guide Amount: Roughly 10-20 litres of water per watering session for each young tree, depending on the size and soil type. Bear in mind, some soil types are more free draining than others.

Don't forget as well, that different species have varying water needs. Some trees like water-loving willows will need more water than their drought tolerant compatriots such as Ginkgo biloba, Pyrus calleryana Chanticleer and Pinus sylvestris.

Expert Tip: Regularly check moisture levels in the soil by inserting a garden trowel near the base. When the top 2-3 inches is dry, it's time to water.

---

Easy Watering Methods

1. Slow Soak

Water slowly around the base of the tree, but not right against the trunk, allowing moisture to soak deep into the root zone. A trickle hose or watering can with a rose attachment works well as it reduces runoff—try to avoid spraying leaves in direct sun, as this can scorch them.

2. Use a Watering Bag

These handy devices gradually release water directly to the roots. They’re perfect for newly planted trees and save you time too, but don't forget to top them up!

3. Mulch Magic

Mulching is one of the best things you can do for your trees in hot weather. Apply a thick layer of organic mulch (like bark chips or composted wood) around the base of the tree—but keep it away from the trunk to avoid rot. Mulch helps to:

• Lock in moisture

• Keep roots cool

• Suppress weeds that compete for water

---

Don’t Forget Windy Days!

Many people don’t realise that wind can dry out trees just as quickly as heat—sometimes even faster. Here’s why:

• Increased Transpiration: Wind speeds up the rate at which water evaporates from leaves. This process, called desiccation, means trees lose moisture faster than they can take it up from the soil.

• Soil Drying: Wind doesn’t just affect the leaves—it also dries out the surface of the soil, making it harder for roots (especially shallow, young roots) to access moisture.

• Hidden Stress: Even on cooler, breezy days, trees can suffer from "drying out" without obvious wilting at first—making it easy to miss the signs of stress.

Expert Tip: After a few blustery days, always check the soil around your young trees. If it feels dry a couple of inches below the surface, it’s time for a good soak!

---

How Long Should I Keep Up Summer Watering?

Newly planted trees generally need regular watering for the first two years—especially through dry summers. For more established trees, keep an eye out for drought stress signs and water as needed.

---

Bonus Tip: Reuse Grey Water Safely

If water restrictions are in place, you can use collected rainwater or even household ‘grey’ water (from baths or washing up) in small amounts. Just avoid using water with harsh chemicals or salt-based softeners.

---

Final Thoughts

Caring for your young trees in hot weather doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s all about deep, consistent watering and a little mulch magic.

Looking for more advice on establishing trees and hedging?👉 Visit our Tree Care Hub or explore our range of trees perfect for UK gardens.

Browse our full range of ornamental trees here.

For more seasonal tips:

• Caring for a New Tree - a Year by Year Guide

• Seasonal Gardening Tips