Water is one of the most important elements in the life of any plant, and for trees and shrubs, it can make the difference between thriving and simply surviving. Whether you’re planting bare root trees or wildlife shrubs, getting the timing of your watering right is just as essential as choosing the right species for your space.
At Cold Stream Farm, we supply wholesale trees and shrubs for landscaping, conservation, and wildlife habitat projects throughout the Midwest and beyond. Our team wants to ensure that your plants flourish once they’re in the ground—and that starts with knowing when and how to water them.
Why Proper Watering Timing Matters
You’ve picked the right plants. You’ve prepared your soil. But even the hardiest bare root tree can struggle without a solid watering plan. When you water at the right times, you:
- Support strong, deep root systems
- Help plants establish more quickly
- Reduce water waste and evaporation
- Lower the risk of disease and fungus
- Encourage better flowering, fruiting, and foliage
And the best part? You don’t need fancy tools—just a little knowledge and consistency.
Morning vs. Evening: What’s the Best Time of Day to Water?
Morning Wins—Every Time
If you remember only one tip from this article, make it this: Water in the morning. The earlier, the better—ideally before 10 a.m. Morning watering allows the water to soak deep into the soil while temperatures are still cool, and winds are typically calm. It also gives leaves time to dry out, preventing fungal diseases.
Evening: Second Best, But Riskier
If mornings aren’t an option, early evening (around 5–6 p.m.) is your next best bet. Just be careful not to soak the leaves or water too late into the night, as moisture left sitting overnight can lead to mildew and root rot.
Seasonal Guide: When to Water Throughout the Year
Spring – Wakeup Call for New Growth
As your bare root trees and shrubs break dormancy, they’ll need moisture to fuel new leaves, buds, and root growth. Spring is one of the best seasons to plant, but you’ll need to water frequently in the beginning.
- New plantings: Water every 2–3 days
- Established trees: Once a week, or as needed based on rainfall
- Tip: Check soil moisture by digging 2–3 inches down—if it feels dry, water!
Summer – Deep Soaks, Not Daily Sprinkles
Hot, dry conditions in summer mean your plants are working overtime. This is when proper watering makes a big difference. Forget quick daily sprays—deep, infrequent watering helps roots grow deeper and builds drought resistance.
- New trees/shrubs: Water once or twice weekly
- Established trees: Every 7–10 days
- Bonus tip: Apply mulch to help retain moisture and keep roots cool
Fall – Time to Taper Off (But Don’t Stop Yet)
As temperatures drop and your plants begin preparing for dormancy, their water needs decrease—but they’re still there. Fall watering supports root growth, especially for wildlife trees and shrubs that feed animals through winter.
- Frequency: Every 2–3 weeks if dry
- Important: Water well before the ground freezes, especially for evergreens
Winter – Water Sparingly in Warmer Climates
In regions where the soil doesn’t freeze solid, occasional winter watering may be needed during dry spells. Plants can still lose moisture through their leaves and bark in cold winds, especially evergreens.
- Water only: When temperatures are above 40°F and the soil isn’t frozen
Tree Age Matters: New vs. Established Plants
Newly Planted Trees & Bare Root Shrubs
Bare root trees and shrubs need careful attention during their first season. Because they’re planted without soil, they need moisture to help their roots settle and grow into the surrounding earth.
- Weeks 1–3: Water 2–3 times per week
- Weeks 4–12: Water weekly
- After 12 weeks: Water bi-weekly or as needed
Mature Trees and Shrubs
Established trees don’t need as much help, but they’ll benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry periods, especially in summer. A single, thorough soaking every 10–14 days should suffice unless you’re dealing with extreme drought.
How to Water the Right Way
Even watering has a strategy. Follow these tips to make sure your trees and shrubs get the most benefit:
- Water the Root Zone – This is the area just outside the trunk or stem, where roots actually absorb water.
- Go Deep – Slow, deep watering encourages roots to grow deeper. Use a soaker hose or drip system if possible.
- Avoid Runoff – Water slowly enough that the soil has time to absorb it.
- Use Mulch – A 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch around your tree base (not touching the trunk) retains moisture and suppresses weeds.
Choosing the Right Plants for Your Yard or Wildlife Project
At Cold Stream Farm, we grow and ship a wide selection of wildlife trees, shrubs, and bare root plants that are well-suited to Midwest conditions and beyond. Some of our most popular offerings include:
- Fast-growing deciduous trees for shade and privacy
- Shrubs for birds and pollinators like elderberry, viburnum, and dogwood
- Deer habitat trees such as red osier dogwood and hazelnut
- Windbreak and privacy evergreens including spruce and pine
Whether you’re creating a wildlife corridor or planting for backyard beauty, you’ll find everything you need in our wholesale tree nursery in Michigan.
Important Shipping Notes
As a leading source for bare root trees and wholesale shrubs, Cold Stream Farm strives to offer the best experience possible. Please keep in mind:
- Field inventory is based on estimates—some items may be unavailable when packed
- Unavailable items will be refunded in full
- Orders may be placed at any time of year
- Once harvest begins, shipments may take up to 3+ weeks after confirmation
- Shipping is only available within the lower 48 contiguous U.S. states
- All orders must be placed online
Before ordering, we strongly recommend reviewing our Shipping Information page.
Water Smarter, Grow Better
From bare root trees to wildlife shrubs, watering at the right time is a simple but powerful step in growing healthy, lasting plants. Follow the guidance above to make the most of your planting efforts—and if you ever need help choosing the right species or placing an order, our team at Cold Stream Farm is here to help.
Contact Cold Stream Farm at (231) 464-5809 today or visit us online for more information!
