How often should I deep water the fruit trees in the warmer weather?
You should irrigate fruit trees with enough water to wet the soil under the canopy of the tree to a depth of 18-24 inches each time you water. In a basin at the orchard, this takes about 15 to 20 gallons each time we water. This would be the same amount for established trees with drip irrigation. The difference would be that the drip irrigation should be applying water to the trees in at least four locations around the basin. These would be placed in a square pattern with the emitters in the corners of the square and about 2 feet from the trunk. If trees are allowed to get bigger than 10-12 feet tall, then you will have to increase the number of emitters. Begin watering once a week when they leaf out. On May 1, increase it to twice per week. Increase it to three times per week when it gets over 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Reduce it back to twice a week when it cools to below 110 degrees. Step it back down in the fall back to your winter watering schedule. Be sure to mulch your fruit trees.
