Tree care during a summer drought
To the surprise of no one, after a dry winter, the effects of summer drought are kicking in. We’re hearing quite a few questions from clients about how to take care of trees through this summer, so we’ve compiled the most important tips we’re sharing:
Your trees need supplemental watering right now. Even if you have lawn sprinklers, the grass is absorbing the water from your sprinklers! Your trees will still need watering.
Frequency of watering depends on tree type. Newly planted trees (less than three years old) have shallower, less established root systems and could use a watering two times per week during the summer heat. Fruit trees appreciate a weekly watering, while mature trees can go a little longer between waterings—as much as a month.
Deep and slow watering works best. Sprinklers and spray hoses saturate the top few inches of dirt, and that’s not where your tree’s roots are! Use a slow-running garden hose trickling for a deep water a couple feet away from your tree’s trunk.
Water in the evening or early morning. During the heat of the day, too much water evaporates away. Do it between 8pm and 7am instead so the water gets where it needs to go.
Mulch around the tree base helps. A two- to four-inch layer of wood chips or bark over your tree’s roots helps hold moisture in and insulate against the summer heat. By replacing your lawn with mulch around the trees, you prevent mower damage as well as keeping water from evaporating. Consider sourcing your wood chips from us, as we have quality chips that help safeguard your tree’s health.
Hold off on pruning. Now’s not the time to cut branches away—wait till fall if the tree needs thinning or re-shaping. Note: dead or dangerous branches do need to be cut, so have us come take a look if you’re unsure.
Keep an eye out for signs of drought stress. Crispy brown scorched edges on leaves, dropping leaves, or wilted leaves in the morning are all signals that the tree’s in distress. Keep in mind that symptoms of over-watering look very similar to symptoms of under-watering. Give us a call if you need help assessing.
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out with your questions and needs—you can reply to this email or call us directly at (801) 891-2588.
