Using a Soaker Hose for High Desert Watering

Many mature trees get left out of good watering practices. Some gardeners may feel that because of the age of the tree there roots are deep enough to get water, not true. Tree roots are only 18 to 24 inches under the soil in the best situations; so watering fully grown trees a few times in the heat of the year is the best way to keep the tree healthy. Soaker hoses are the best and easiest way to get the job done; they water slowly and effectively. 

Water now, once in August and possibly
September if it stays dry for about 45 minutes around the drip line of the tree. The natural drip line is at the end of the branches, it is where it would be wet after a heavy rain. The photo here shows my Elm tree getting some moisture, finally. Note that I have plants and lawn that provide water to that side of the tree; I am using the soaker hose where it does not get watered. Once you get it set up fully turn on the water reducing by half after a few minutes. It is best to water slowly; it lets the water move down through the soil rather than running off where it may not be needed.
Make sure to use a timer, set for 45 minutes or more. I use them all the time. Send me a note to gardencoachinreno@gmail.com if you have any questions.