Tree Care

Taking care of trees is very important to help new trees grow strong and to keep older trees strong, especially in dry conditions.

Water is the most important factor for newly planted trees. Don't let new trees go without it!

For New Trees:

• Water them with 10 litres (about 2.5 gallons) twice a week for the first month.
• After that, water them every 7 to 10 days for the next three years.
• Water more often if it’s hot and dry.

For Older Trees:

• During dry times, use 45 litres (about 10 gallons) of water for every 2.5 cm (1 inch) of the tree's thickness.
• Make sure the water goes 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4 inches) deep into the ground.

How to Water New Trees:

• Use a drip system or let water trickle from a hose around the tree base.
• Water until the soil is soaked.
• Let the soil on top dry a bit before watering again.
• After a few months, water more area around the tree to help roots spread.
• Don't rely just on lawn sprinklers to water your tree.

Mulching helps maintain soil moisture, keeps the ground cool, and controls weeds and other competing growing around the base of the tree.

Mulching Tips:

• Place 5 to 8 centimetres (2 to 3 inches) of mulch over the tree's root zone at the time of planting.
• Avoid putting mulch right against the tree trunk to avoid injury from fungi, pests, and rodents.
• Keep the area around the tree clear of weeds and grass to protect from mowers and trimmers.
• Trees planted in lower areas, or in compacted or clay soil will need more oxygen, so less mulch may be required.
• Don't place rocks, landscape fabric, or artificial turf around the tree as they can impact drainage and soil conditions harming the tree.

• Do not use fertilizers on trees because they can cause weak growth which will not strengthen before winter.
• Keep lawn and other plant or annual fertilizers away from trees.
• Herbicides are also harmful to trees. Indicators of herbicide damage will appear soon after contact and are easy to spot.
• Keep herbicides away from the root system, branches, and leaves. Even a small amount can cause significant damage.

The City of Yorkton's Parks Division is responsible for the care and maintenance of City owned trees. Learn more about tree maintenance programs on the Tree Maintenance & Inspections webpage.