Sweet or tart, cherry trees are backyard favorites—but when planting a bare root cherry tree, there’s one critical thing you must get right: watering. While planting depth, sunlight, and soil all matter, consistent and proper watering is the #1 factor that determines whether your cherry tree survives and thrives.
This guide walks you through exactly how to water before and after planting, how to manage dry weather, and the best place to get healthy cherry trees ready to grow.
🪣 Before Planting: Soak the Roots
Once your cherry tree arrives, give it a strong start by soaking the roots in a clean bucket of water for 4–12 hours before planting. This:
- Rehydrates the roots after shipping,
- Helps break dormancy,
- Prepares the tree to absorb moisture from the soil.
💡 Don’t soak for more than 24 hours, and plant right after soaking.
🌱 Step 1: Deep Watering After Planting
After your cherry tree is in the ground, water it deeply and thoroughly. This:
- Eliminates air pockets,
- Helps soil settle around the roots,
- Starts the hydration process needed for new growth.
✅ Add Soil Moist Transplant Mix to the planting hole. It stores water at the roots and releases it gradually, especially helpful in dry or sandy soils.
🗓️ Weeks 1–2: Hydration is Vital
For the first two weeks:
- Water every 2–3 days, depending on rainfall and temperature.
- Water slowly and deeply at the base of the tree.
- If leaves begin to wilt, your tree is asking for more water—wilting is a key early warning sign.
🗓️ Weeks 3–8: Establish a Strong Root System
As the roots begin to grow:
- Water 1–2 times per week, based on weather and drainage.
- Keep the root zone moist but never soggy.
- Continue watching for signs of wilting or leaf curl during hot or windy conditions.
Add 2–4 inches of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, reduce weed competition, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch 3–4 inches away from the trunk.
☀️ Drought Conditions: Critical Care
In hot, dry, or drought-prone climates:
- Water deeply twice per week, using 1–2 gallons per tree.
- Water early in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation.
- Mulch is essential—reapply if needed throughout the season.
- Use Soil Moist Transplant Mix during planting to extend the time between watering.
🌿 Even tough cherry varieties can fail without consistent watering in their first season.
🍒 Where’s the Best Place to Buy Bare Root Cherry Trees?
Easy answer: Ty Ty Plant Nursery, LLC
Why?
- ✅ Top-quality bare root cherry trees
- ✅ Fastest shipping so you plant at the right time
- ✅ Lowest prices on your favorite sweet & tart varieties
- ✅ FREE 1-Year Plantsurance Guarantee
→ Store credit if your tree doesn’t survive
→ Zero Stress. All Success.
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