is a native of moist, fog-shrouded environments.Temperatures in its native habitat do not reach the heights … This can be a problem in landscape with automatic watering systems that apply water by timer even during weeks when rainfall amounts have been good. One of the fastest-growing trees available. Your redwood will tell you whether or not you’re watering enough. Dawn redwood will not do well in dry soil, and it needs full sun to grow its best. Both over and under watering a tree can be dangerous. Water cedar trees more frequently during warmer months or low-levels of rainfall. How to Save Overwatered Trees. The Difference in Under and Over Watering Trees . Plant this tree in acidic to neutral soil that stays consistently moist—or where a water source for irrigation is near at hand. The bright green, feathery leaves turn orange-brown or reddish-brown in the fall. Thank you for using Ask an Expert. Don't Over-Water a Tree! Dawn Redwood is a deciduous conifer producing small, round 1/2" to 1" cones. How to Grow Dawn Redwood . Choose a location with plenty of empty space surrounding the tree, as this huge specimen will need the space. As mentioned, if the tree's leaves look wilted or scorched even though you have faithfully been watering, it's quite possible that there is too much soil moisture for the tree to handle. It has a neat pyramidal shape in youth, maturing into a more rounded crown. A sign of a dry Redwood is wilted leaves. Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens), the more common redwood planted in our area (as opposed to the more drought tolerant Giant Sequoia). Although adequate water is essential to a young tree's health, it is easy for a gardener to overdo irrigation. It should perk up after watering. For large established trees, water every 3 to 4 weeks in summer — more frequently during record high temperatures. Light . Choosing when to water, how much to apply, and how frequently to water a tree can be a tricky decision. Overwatering also kills a redwood tree and brings about disease. Apply 2 to 3 inches of coarse organic mulch at the base of cedar trees to protect shallow roots and hold in moisture. Likes full sun and prefers moist, deep, well-drained soils. Fast-growing and easily transplanted. Curling or wilted leaves that turn brown at the edge or tips. A sparse color canopy and undersized leaves, yellowing leaves or leaf scorch. References. Do not water cedar trees too frequently during cold months when the tree is dormant or during inclement winter weather. However, each of these issues can lead to a different set of problems. Warning. Signs You are Under Watering Your Trees.