Can You Overwater a Tree? Recovering an Overwatered Tree

Whether you have a freshly planted fruit tree or an old sturdy oak adorning your yard, they need adequate watering to flourish. But can you overwater a tree? You can. Proper watering is essential because you don't want to drown your tree or underwater it either.

If your tree isn't looking as lush as it should, then it may be from overwatering. Learn what signs to look out for to tell if you are overwatering your tree and how to save it if you are.

Overwatered Tree Signs to Watch Out For

Trees will give you signs that you are overwatering them. The tree's leaves are the first places to look for stress, but you may notice negative changes in the bark and branches, too. Before you break out the garden hose again, look out for these signs of overwatering so you can adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

• Wetness around the base of the tree, and the soil is soggy, not just moist

• Wilted branches or leaves

• Gummy residue on leaves

• Curling or brown edges on the leaves

• Newer sections of the tree dying off (if it's still growing)

• Fruit dropping prematurely

• Root Rot

If your tree shows signs of damage to the bark or roots, you should contact an arborist near you to determine if the tree is dying and can be saved.

What Happens if You Overwater a Tree?

Overwatering a tree can cause severe damage and even kill it eventually. It prevents the roots from absorbing oxygen and cannot support new growth. It can also cause root rot, which can cause the tree to die.

Saturated soil can cause mold, algae, and fungus to grow and harm your tree. All these things can make the tree more susceptible to diseases and pests. So, it's vital to figure out if your tree is overwatered so you can take action and save it before it's too late.

How to Save an Overwatered Tree

Is your tree showing signs of being overwatered? If so, don't fret just yet. There are some things you can do to help it recover and begin to thrive again. Take these steps if you've noticed overwatered tree signs:

1. Reduce Water Intake

2. Fix Drainage Issues

If you notice pooling water around the tree showing signs of overwatering, you will need to fix any drainage issues that may be causing it. There are a few things you can do to fix poor drainage.

You can begin improving drainage by aerating your lawn. This will help break up the soil and allow water to seep into the ground more easily. Mixing compost into the soil can also help with drainage because it makes the soil softer and more absorbent.

However, if standing water is severe, you may need to install a french drain or have your lawn graded to assist in diverting water and prevent it from pooling.

3. Remove Mulch Temporarily

Mulch has many benefits for plants and trees. However, since it retains moisture, you may need to remove it temporarily to allow the soil to dry out. Once your overwatered tree improves, you can add organic mulch back to provide insulation and nutrition. Remember to also fix any draining issues you have before replacing the mulch.

4. Consult an Arborist

The best way to ensure you can save your overwatered tree is to consult a certified arborist near you. An arborist is like a tree doctor and will be able to determine if the problem is just from overwatering or if there are other issues with the tree. Getting a professional opinion can save you a lot of time and effort and can possibly save your tree's life.

How to Tell if a Tree is Overwatered or Underwatered

Unfortunately, some signs that a tree is overwatered are the same as it being underwatered. Of course, checking the soil to see if it is soggy can help determine the cause. There are some other signs to keep an eye out for to make sure you are not underwatering your tree either, such as:

• Wilted, curled, or dead leaves

• Off-colored sections of leaves or bald patches where leaves should be

• Early leaf drop (late summer or earlier)

• Yellow or "scorched" appearance on leaves

• A "gummy" residue on leaves

• Bark damage (cracks, peeling)

• Reduced quantity or quality of the fruit on fruit trees

Consider the situation "serious" if all the leaves on the tree are lightened, off-colored, or scorched. At this point, you should consider outsourcing the job to fix an under-watered or over-watered tree. Damage to tree bark should also warrant you calling in a professional. Hire a tree maintenance company near you to help determine if it can be saved or needs removal.

Is It Worth Trying to Save a Tree?

Trees have so many benefits and are always worth trying to save. They provide homes and food for wildlife, produce oxygen, purify the air, help with erosion, and reduce noise pollution. They can even boost property value. According to Consumer Reports, a mature tree can increase your property value by thousands of dollars.

Hiring an arborist costs between $250 and $2,500, depending on the tree's size, location, and needs. But it's well worth it if you can save your tree from dying.