Watering Newly Planted Trees

To increase tree canopy cover and the numerous benefits derived from a heathy urban forest, the City of Hilliard has planted in excess of 2,000 street trees over the past five years.  Most of these replacements were due to removing Emerald Ash Borer-infested ash trees, along with the normal tree removal expected from an actively managed urban forest.

For these trees to establish, survive, and thrive, they need to quickly regenerate a root system which was severely reduced during the transplanting process.  In fact, 90 to 95% of a transplanted tree’s roots are left in the nursery.  The most critical element in re-establishing severed roots is adequate water.

This is why a watering bag, commonly called a Gator Bag, is included with each new tree.  When properly filled, water slowly drips over top of the tree’s remaining roots through small perforations in the bottom of the bag.  To fill the bag, place a hose in the small opening under the rectangular card at the top of the bag.

As we get into the hot dry summer months, watering becomes more important.  Fill the bag every ten days, if the area hasn’t received an inch or more precipitation during this period.  At the end of the one-year guarantee period, the contractor will remove the watering bag and stakes.

Thank you for helping sustain and enhance Hilliard’s urban forest resource.  If you have any questions, please contact City Forester Drew Todd at dtodd@hilliardohio.gov.