How to Water Mature Trees During a Heatwave

We know Georgia summers have a scorching reputation. In 2025 alone, news sources reported summertime temperatures hitting the triple digits with Atlanta experiencing the fourth hottest July on record.

When sweltering days roll around again, many homeowners will be quick to provide their lawns and flower beds with heatwave-ready hydration. Unfortunately, established and mature trees aren’t always on the top of the list. However, they should be as trees remain the cornerstone of a home landscape. The Purdue University Extension reminds us of their countless benefits, from helping to clean our air to increasing property values, to providing shade and saving energy, and more.

Here at Premier Tree Solutions, we want to share the critical importance of watering mature trees during a heatwave and drought conditions, and the best way to do it.

Why Water Mature Trees During a Heatwave?

The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences says without proper water to make food or cool themselves, trees can overheat. A majority of a tree’s active roots can be found within the top 12 inches of soil and spread past the tree’s canopy. The University of Missouri Extension explains how excessive, long-lasting heat and drought basically bakes the soil. These conditions can have a devastating effect on the roots responsible for water and nutrient uptake by killing or damaging them in the process. Additionally, the Purdue University Extension shares other ways a drought can have a negative impact on trees. This includes slowing and reducing tree growth, lessening carbohydrate production, lowering energy reserves for survival through winter, increasing its vulnerability to pests, and even causing the tree to die.

When is the right time to water a tree? The University of Missouri Extension suggests checking soil moisture by trying to push the head of a screwdriver six to eight inches into the ground located around the tree root zone. If you experience resistance, that means the tree needs water.

Where and How to Water a Mature Tree

When it comes to established trees, avoid pouring water at the base of the trunk, which can cause decay and disease. Since the roots that absorb water and oxygen are spread across a wide area, it’s best to focus your watering on the tree’s outer root zone. As a general rule, apply water in a wide circular band that starts halfway between the trunk and the dripline, spans across the dripline, and extends several feet beyond it.

Experts suggest watering trees in the early morning or late evening to lessen the possibility of water evaporation. According to the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer, the best way to water a mature tree is slowly and deeply. It suggests using an irrigation bubbler, multiple drip emitters, or a hand-held hose when watering the tree’s root zone. It’s ideal to moisten the soil two to three feet deep during each watering session and allow the surface to dry between waterings.

The University of Missouri Extension suggests watering deeply every six to seven days during dry weather. If a heatwave or drought increases or when temperatures shoot above 95 degrees, increase watering to every four to five days.

Call Premier Tree Solutions for Tree Watering Advice

Do you have any questions about the best way to water your trees during summer heat? Call 404-252-6448 or schedule a complimentary assessment online.