Summer heat can be tough on newly planted trees, especially during long stretches with little rainfall. Across Harris County, the Harris County Flood Control District takes a hands-on approach to caring for young trees.

Giving those trees the right amount of water during their first years helps them become established and better prepared for future hot and dry conditions.

The Process

There are currently more than 44,000 trees in the Flood Control District’s maintenance program. Trees are watered for the first two years after planting with up to 26 weeks of watering each year, depending on how much rain a site receives.

How do crews know when young trees need water?

First, they monitor recent rainfall using the Harris County Flood Warning System

Then, they literally dig in and inspect soil at each site by hand to determine when — and how much — to water. (This step is especially important during long stretches of summer heat!)

Why the First Two Years Matter

Newly planted trees need time to develop strong root systems. During their first summers, prolonged heat and dry conditions can place additional stress on those developing roots.

That’s why watering is an important part of early tree care. Instead of relying on a set schedule alone, Flood Control District crews consider actual conditions at each location before deciding when watering is necessary.

This approach is especially important in a county as large as Harris County, where rainfall can vary from one area to another. One location may receive a lot of rain while another remains relatively dry. Checking weather and soil conditions helps avoid unnecessary watering while making sure young trees receive attention when conditions become hot and dry.

The team’s hands-on approach helps conserve resources while giving every tree what it needs to take root and grow, supporting resilient projects that benefit both communities and the natural environment.