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Watering Newly Planted Trees w/ Well Water (IL)

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From: Joani B. City: Streator, IL
I live in a rural area and we plant at least one tree a year on our property. However, our water supply is naturally soft water. One tree in particular, a Bald Cypress, just isn't putting off much growth in the 4 years since we've planted it. I know Redbud trees are very sensitive to salt/treated water, so that tree has been only watered with distilled water from a dehumidifier since it is very small yet. We are not able to supply enough natural water to provide adequate amounts during dry spells. Is using our well water hindering our Bald Cypress growth?
	Extension Message From: Jay Hayek Extension Specialist, Forestry Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences jhayek@illinois.edu
Hi Joani: I don't suspect your well water is the issue, rather, I suspect the harsh droughty summers of 2012 and 2013 as the main culprit. The are other issues to consider as well: the physical quality of the tree when you transplanted it; care in planting the tree; planting the tree to deep or too shallow; over-watering and/or under watering; etc. There is absolutely no way for me to determine the exact cause of "slow growth" via email, phone, or the Internet -- your best bet is to continue to evaluate the tree throughout the growing season next year.
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