The council's tree-watering programme aims to help new trees get established and grow successfully. Thank you to Tree Friend residents who are supplementing this with additional watering, especially in the summer months, to ensure they flourish in the early stages of their life.
Watering a new young tree
The video shows how to successfully water a new young tree.
If you plan on watering a nearby tree, please ensure you follow the correct method when doing so.
Only carry enough water at one time that you are physically fit enough to carry, and no more than 10 litres if you are a woman or 15 litres if you are a man. Please refer to the Manual Handling Operations Regulations: A Brief Guide.
Each new tree is supported by two stakes and has a green watering bag around its trunk that has a small slit in it for pouring water into. Watering bags are designed to allow water to slowly percolate onto the root ball of the tree. If the watering bag needs to be replaced e.g. if it is leaking from the side or it has not emptied within two days, please report it to us.
Ideally water the trees in the early morning or in the evening, using recycled water where possible such as used dishwater or collected rainwater.
The first three years are the most important, and do ensure that the trees are regularly watered throughout the growing season especially during dry periods (young trees require at least 50 litres of water each week from May to August).
You can find further information on taking care of your local trees in the Tree Friends Toolkit.