Fall Watering is Critical — Especially for Conifers

As summer turns to fall, it’s essential to ensure that your tree seedlings—especially your conifers—have enough water going into winter. Once the ground freezes, tree roots can no longer absorb moisture. Trees must rely on the water stored in their tissues to survive until spring.

Conifers are particularly vulnerable to drought stress because they retain their needles year-round. If they enter winter without adequate moisture, they may lose needles or entire branches before spring. Unfortunately, this damage often isn’t immediately visible. A tree can appear healthy while struggling internally.

Symptoms like browning needles or dieback may not show up for weeks or even months. In many

cases, the underlying issue occurred during the previous winter. This delayed response makes it difficult to connect symptoms to their source and highlights the need for proactive care. Waiting for visible signs of drought stress is often too late.

5 Top Ways to Protect Tree Seedlings in Fall

1. Water deeply before the ground freezes - Stored moisture helps trees survive the months when roots can’t absorb water.

2. Pay close attention to conifers and young trees - These are most vulnerable to winter drought stress and require extra care.

3. Monitor soil moisture - Check the root zone and water if the soil is dry several inches down.

4. Mulch around the base - A 2–4 inch layer of mulch or leaf litter helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk.

5. Don’t wait for visible stress - Once needles begin browning or branches die back, the damage is already done. Act early to prevent problems.

   
   

With just a few simple steps this fall, you can dramatically improve the health and survival of young trees—especially conifers—through winter and beyond. For general information about how to plant tree seedlings, see our website section on at How To Plant Tree Seedlings.