New trees that were just planted have only a small percentage of their original roots and must be closely watched and watered carefully. Always check the moisture of the soil around your tree before watering. If the soil is dry, water should be delivered at a slowly using a sprinkler. Recently planted containers and nursery stock should be checked at least once a week to determine if water is necessary, and more often during hot and dry weather. Watering your trees too frequently or too much can also kill them.

During long periods with no water, larger trees will need to be watered. A large tree can use more than 100 gallons of water on a summer day. Before you water your tree, check the soil moisture about 12 to 18 inches deep with a small spade or soil probe. Check midway between the trunk of the tree and the edge of the branch spread. If the soil is dry, water it with a sprinkler or a hose. Water the area at least as wide as the branch spread. Well established trees may have extensive root systems that extend far beyond the tips of the branches and will benefit from water outside the branch spread. Avoid using chemically softened water to trees. Frequent use of softened water may harm the soil and damage trees.

FALL
When it comes to trees, the gardening season is not over once fall arrives. Fall is a great time for planting most trees. It is also important to do your fall tree care like pruning to prepare them for winter. Snow wind and ice are your worst enemy so be sure to propery prune your trees.

Most trees can be planted in the fall season. The weather is cooler, which leeds to less stress for the tree and allowing the tree a better chance to established its roots. This time of year is a also great chance to find some discounted trees and plants. Young trees are vulnerable to the temperature changes that come with winter in West Michigan. Newer trees are usually not developed enough to withstand the continual freezing and thawing that can occur. A thick layer of mulch can greatly improve your young trees' chances. Do not put it directly against the trunk, this can cause moisture buildup that attracts fungus. You can use bark chips or leaves to mulch your tree.

WINTER
Winter pruning is important because it is the best time to care for the structural needs of trees. When pruning for asthetics, it is best to let a proffesional tree expert trim and shape the branches. Late winter is a good time to prune some trees. There are fewer insects and diseases around to cause problems with the cuts, and it's easier to see what you're doing with no leaves. There are some trees that should not be pruned in the winter.