Newly planted trees around Aurora can thrive under water restrictions 

The city of Aurora’s Forestry team plants trees every spring and fall in eligible planting locations. Although drought conditions affected the timing of this year’s most recent fall planting, the program will continue to help eligible properties grow a healthy tree canopy through the coming years. With watering restrictions in place, residents may wonder why the city is still planting trees and how newly planted trees will get the water they need. Current watering restrictions apply to turf irrigation, not tree watering. Trees have different watering needs than grass, and newly planted trees can still receive the water they need to establish healthy roots.  

Trees provide many benefits to Aurora’s residents and the environment, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service technical report. They shade homes and buildings, which can help reduce energy costs by up to 30%, and cool urban areas by as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Trees also help reduce air pollution and provide important habitat for native wildlife. Beyond these environmental benefits, access to trees and green spaces has been linked to positive health outcomes, including lower rates of heart disease, stroke and asthma. Planting and caring for trees helps support healthier neighborhoods and ensures these benefits can continue for years to come. 


The city’s fall tree planting program typically begins in early September, but drought conditions pushed the start of this year’s planting season to late September. Weather permitting, Spring planting will begin in April. Planting when temperatures are cooler helps reduce stress on newly planted trees and gives them a better chance to establish themselves. The Forestry team monitors weather conditions throughout each season with the intent to plant when moisture levels are higher to provide additional support to the newly planted trees. Homeowners whose properties are selected for planting should receive a letter and a sign in their yard with information about the program. 

While the city works to plant new trees, residents can also help protect the trees growing in their own yards. Proper watering is especially important during dry conditions and even through winter, and a simple rule to remember is to water low and slow. Applying water slowly near the ground and close to the tree’s root zone allows moisture to soak deeper into the soil, where roots can absorb it. Watering buckets, tree watering bags and drip lines are useful tools for delivering water gradually and reducing runoff. 

Residents can also check soil moisture before watering to help determine whether a tree needs more water. A soil moisture probe, wooden dowel or screwdriver can help check conditions below the surface. The soil should feel moist but not soaked. Newly planted trees need particular attention as their root systems develop, so checking soil moisture regularly can help ensure they receive enough water without being overwatered. 

Even during a drought and through winter, trees need water to stay healthy and grow. By continuing to plant trees at the right time and following proper watering practices, Aurora can support a stronger, healthier tree canopy. With the right care, trees can provide shade, cleaner air, wildlife habitat and other lasting benefits for the community for generations to come. 

To learn more about Aurora’s urban forest and general tree knowledge, visit AuroraGov.org/Trees.