I thought deep root watering was just a gimmick for years

For a long time, I figured a good surface soak was enough for any tree. Then I took a job in Tucson last summer, working on some stressed mesquites. The homeowner had been using a deep root feeder for two seasons and insisted I check the soil. I dug down about 18 inches and the moisture level was totally different from the surface. The tree's feeder roots were actually deeper and healthier than the ones next to it that just got top water. It made me rethink my whole approach on dry sites. Has anyone else had a specific job that flipped their view on a common practice?

2 comments

2 Comments

cooper.viola2mo ago

That 18 inch check in Tucson is a great example. What was the actual soil type there, like was it a really compacted clay or more of a sandy mix? I'm trying to picture how the water moved down.

michaela162mo ago

But that's just one tree in one spot... most places get enough rain that surface roots are fine. You're adding a lot of work for maybe no real gain.